Definition of Ginseng
Ginseng: An herb that has been used to stimulate the adrenal gland and
thereby increase energy. It also may have some beneficial effect on
reducing blood sugar in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Ginseng can cause elevation in blood pressure, headache, vomiting, insomnia, and nose bleeding. Ginseng can also cause falsely abnormal blood tests for digoxin level in persons taking the drug for heart disease. It is unclear whether ginseng may affect female hormones. Its use in pregnancy is not recommended. Ginseng may
affect the action of the normal blood clotting element (platelets).
It should be avoided in patients taking aspirin, nonsteroidal
antiinflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen/Advil, Motrin or
naproxen/Aleve), or medications to prevent blood clotting
(anticoagulants) such as warfarin/Coumadin. Ginseng may also cause
headaches, tremors, nervousness, and sleeplessness. It should be
avoided in persons with manic disorder and psychosis.
Last Editorial Review: 7/16/2001
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