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Siberian ginseng is a genus of the panax (true ginseng) plant.
Widely known as an adaptogen, or a substance that may help assist
people in dealing with physical and emotional stress, Siberian
ginseng has been used to increase the capability to do physical work
and to relieve stress.
There are three varieties of ginseng:
American,
Asian, and Siberian. American and Asian ginsengs are best used to
alleviate stress, fatigue, convalescence, and diabetes. Siberian
ginseng is not only used for stress and fatigue, but is also
believed to be helpful for a number of maladies including
atherosclerosis, ulcerative colitis, and impaired kidney function.
It is believed (based on a few Russian studies) that the active
components in the Siberian are superior to the other types. However,
there is not enough credible evidence to substantiate this
claim.
Siberian ginseng may increase your body's resistance
to stress and prevent certain types of illness. Siberian ginseng may
be useful when used in connection with stress and body fatigue
caused by viruses, bacteria, chemicals, extreme working conditions,
noise, and pollution. It has also been suggested that Siberian
ginseng may help the body to recuperate when recovering from
illness.
Many people claim that Siberian ginseng is very
useful for increasing mental and physical performance. Specifically,
it has been reported that Siberian ginseng can help to increase
concentration, focus, and physical stamina.
As a result of
its stimulant effects, this herb is not the most commonly used of
the ginsengs. Some physicians, however, may suggest a patient use
Siberian ginseng during periods of
adjustment.
Recommended Dosage
For
adults the recommended dose of Siberian ginseng is 2 to 3 g daily in
the form of a tea or capsule. You can also take a tincture of herb
and alcohol, or herb, alcohol, and water (1 part Siberian ginseng
may be used in 5 parts liquid), to be taken in doses 5 mL three
times daily. When making a ginseng extract, a mixture of 1 part herb
is used in 1 part liquid. It is best when using solid extracts made
from dried powdered root that you look for Siberian ginseng products
which contain at least 1% eleutheroside F. These should be taken in
doses of 100 to 200 mg up to three times a day. When used for
children it is recommended to cut the adult dosage according to the
weight of the child. For instance, most herbal dosages for adults
are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult, so if the
child weighs 50 lb (20 to 25 kg), the appropriate dose of Siberian
ginseng for this child would be one-third of the adult dosage. It
has been reported that ginseng should never be used in children for
more than two weeks.
When taking Siberian ginseng, use it for
one month and then wait two months before taking it again. For
chronic fatigue you can take it for three months, wait two weeks,
and then repeat the dosage.
You should always consult with
your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
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