The root of the the Chinese ginseng plant, or
Panax ginseng, has been used for thousands of years as a component of
traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM. TCM practitioners widely regard ginseng
root as an adaptogen, or an herb that enables adaptation to physical and emotional
stress. Although ginseng has been studied for use across all ages and genders,
it provides many benefits specific to the needs of women.
I have
personally been using ginseng throughout several stages in my life, including
pregnancy, weaning and episodes of mild depression. Depending on your specific
stage in life and any medical concerns you may have, ginseng can help to
provide any of the following benefits to you. Of course, always get the
go-ahead from your primary health care provider before using any medicinal
herb.
Heart Disease
Heart Disease
Heart
disease is an increasingly significant problem for women, particularly those
over fifty. While ginseng root isn't a cure-all for cardiovascular disease--and
certainly can't replace to role of diet and exercise--it does offer some
protection when used alongside other reasonable treatments. Ginseng root is a
powerful antioxidant, meaning that it can protect your LDL, or "bad,"
cholesterol from the effects of reactive oxygen molecules. Some limited
evidence also suggests that it can prevent heart attack and stroke. If you're
concerned about your heart health, ginseng may help to prevent or treat common
cardiovascular diseases.
Sexual Health
Although
the pharmaceutical industry makes a much bigger ado about men's sexual
problems, women are actually much more prone to sexual dysfunction. If you're
one of the millions of women who struggles with a low libido or an inability to
achieve orgasm, ginseng root may help. Ginseng seems to stimulate bloodflow to
the genitals, enabling more sexual interest and sensitivity. Professional help,
either from a qualified sex therapist or from your health care provider, may be
necessary if your sexual problems are persistent.
Pregnancy Health
From
conception to postpartum, ginseng may help to support the pregnancy.
Historically, TCM practitioners have recommended ginseng root to improve female
fertility. It can also help to improve the health of unborn babies with
anoxemic encephalopathy and retarded fetal growth. Midwives may also recommend
it to prevent preterm or post-term labor, although there isn't enough evidence
to firmly recommend for or against it. Although ginseng seems to be safe for
expectant moms, it's critical to talk to your doctor or midwife before using
it. She can help you to determine if the benefits are worth the potential
risks.
Menopause
Menopause
can be a very difficult stage in your life, and complementary medicine can help
to mitigate some of its effects. Ginseng does not reliably treat hot flashes or night sweats, but it can ease sexual problems, mood
swings and depression associated with menopause and middle age. It might also
help to improve your clarity of thought, memory and cognition during and after
menopause. Although it doesn't possess the ability to delay or prevent this
inevitable aspect of aging, ginseng can help to make the transition as emotionally
and physically painless as possible.
Remember
that medicinal herbs, while generally safe, are also powerful medicines. Like
all other medicines, they can cause side effects, drug interactions and other
complications. For this reason, it is never a good idea to take a medicinal
herb without carefully reviewing the potential risks. A qualified practitioner
trained in botanical medicine can help you address any concerns you may have
about your health.
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