10 Possible Side Effects Of Panax Ginseng (Ginseng)

Panax ginseng has some side effects when used improperly, such as headaches, insomnia, and increased heart rate.

These symptoms can occur when ginseng interacts with medications, such as blood thinners and high blood pressure medications, causing excessive stimulation.

For example, a person with sleep disorders may experience severe insomnia and difficulty concentrating due to overstimulation, leading to impaired daily functioning and social relationships.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Panax ginseng if used imporperly.

1. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng increases blood pressure due to its ability to stimulate the body's natural production of cortisol and adrenaline.

As these hormones increase, they cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to a rise in blood pressure. Additionally, ginseng's effects on the nervous system can also contribute to increased blood pressure by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling stress responses and increasing blood pressure.

This side effect is more likely to occur with higher doses or prolonged use of Panax ginseng.

2. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng causes insomnia due to its stimulatory effects on the body.

It increases alertness and energy by stimulating the central nervous system, which can make it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep.

This is because Panax ginseng can elevate cortisol levels, leading to an increase in adrenaline and a sense of alertness, making it challenging for the body to relax and enter a state of sleep.

3. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng induces anxiety attacks due to its ability to stimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure.

The root's adaptogenic properties can cause a surge in energy and alertness, which may exacerbate pre-existing anxiety disorders or trigger anxiety attacks in susceptible individuals.

Additionally, ginseng's potential to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain may contribute to feelings of jitteriness and unease, further amplifying anxiety symptoms.

4. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng suppresses appetite due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system and increase energy levels.

The increased activity may lead to a decrease in hunger sensations, making it more difficult for some individuals to feel hungry or experience cravings for food.

This side effect is often accompanied by other symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.

5. Causes rapid heartbeat

6. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng worsens hypertension due to its ability to increase blood pressure and heart rate.

This is because it stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating cardiovascular function. Additionally, Panax ginseng may also enhance the effects of adrenaline, a hormone that constricts blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure.

As a result, individuals with pre-existing hypertension may experience a further increase in their blood pressure levels when using Panax ginseng.

7. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng increases risk seizures due to its ability to interact with certain medications, such as sedatives, antidepressants, and anesthetics.

Additionally, the herb's stimulating effects on the nervous system may exacerbate conditions like epilepsy, increasing the likelihood of seizure activity.

The root's high concentration of bioactive compounds, including ginsenosides, can also cause overstimulation of brain neurons, potentially leading to seizures in susceptible individuals.

8. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng affects digestive system when consumed in large quantities or by individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.

The saponin compounds present in Panax ginseng can cause stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea due to their ability to irritate the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.

Additionally, the stimulatory effects of Panax ginseng on the central nervous system can also lead to changes in bowel habits, further contributing to digestive system issues.

9. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng reduces fertility rates by affecting the body's reproductive hormones and altering sperm quality.

The herb has been shown to decrease testosterone levels and lower sperm count, leading to reduced fertility in both men and women.

Additionally, Panax ginseng may interfere with the normal functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, further compromising fertility.

10. Causes rapid heartbeat

Panax ginseng interferes with sleep quality by stimulating the central nervous system and increasing alertness.

This can make it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. The herb's energizing properties can also disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue.

As a result, people may experience restlessness, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating due to lack of sleep.