American Ginseng for Stress? What the Science Says
Quick Summary: Researchers looked at studies on American ginseng and its effect on stress hormones. The review found that the evidence is unclear whether American ginseng helps manage stress in humans.
Does American Ginseng Reduce Stress?
This research review looked at many studies to see if different plants and nutrients could affect the body's stress response system, called the HPA axis. This system controls hormones like cortisol, which is linked to stress. The review found that the effects of American ginseng on stress hormones were not clear.
Study Details
- Who was studied: The review looked at studies involving people who took American ginseng. However, the review did not focus on a specific group of people.
- How long: The review looked at studies published up to October 2020. The length of the studies varied.
- What they took: The review did not specify the exact dosage or form of American ginseng used in the studies.
What This Means For You
If you're looking for natural ways to manage stress, this research suggests that American ginseng's impact on stress hormones isn't well-established. While some studies show promise, more research is needed. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you are already taking medication.
Study Limitations
The researchers pointed out some issues with the studies:
- Different Study Designs: The studies used different methods, making it hard to compare results.
- Varied Dosages: The amount of American ginseng used in each study was different.
- More Research Needed: More research is needed to understand the effects of American ginseng on stress.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The systematic review found no conclusive evidence that American Ginseng significantly alters HPA-axis hormones (e.g., cortisol, cortisone, ACTH) in humans. While ashwagandha demonstrated a consistent morning cortisol-lowering effect, results for American Ginseng were inconclusive due to methodological heterogeneity across studies. The authors emphasized the need for standardized research protocols to clarify its potential role in stress regulation.
Study Design
This systematic review analyzed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to October 2020. Databases included PubMed, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. The review focused on single-plant or phytonutrient interventions with pre/post measurements of HPA-axis hormones in blood, saliva, urine, or hair. No specific sample size or duration is provided for American Ginseng trials, as the study aggregated data from 52 trials examining diverse phytonutrients.
Dosage & Administration
The review did not report specific dosages or administration methods for American Ginseng due to significant variability in study designs. Most included trials used different formulations (e.g., extracts, powders), dosing regimens, and durations, precluding direct comparisons.
Results & Efficacy
No quantitative outcomes or statistically significant effects for American Ginseng were detailed in the summary. The review noted inconsistent results across phytonutrients, with insufficient data to determine efficacy. For example, some studies reported trends in cortisol reduction, but these were not robust or reproducible. The lack of pooled statistical analysis (e.g., effect sizes, p-values) for American Ginseng specifically highlights the absence of definitive conclusions.
Limitations
The review identified critical limitations:
1. Heterogeneity: Wide variability in study populations (e.g., healthy adults vs. clinical groups), dosages, and outcome measures.
2. Methodological flaws: Inconsistent hormone measurement timing (e.g., diurnal variations in cortisol) and small sample sizes in primary trials.
3. Publication bias: Potential underrepresentation of null results.
4. Short durations: Most trials lasted ≤12 weeks, limiting assessment of long-term effects.
Future research requires standardized protocols, larger samples, and targeted investigations into American Ginseng’s pharmacokinetics.
Clinical Relevance
For supplement users, this review suggests current evidence does not support claims that American Ginseng reliably modulates stress-related HPA-axis activity. While preclinical studies may indicate adaptogenic potential, human RCTs lack consistency to validate these effects. Practitioners should prioritize caution and consider other interventions (e.g., ashwagandha) with stronger preliminary evidence for cortisol regulation. Further high-quality trials are needed to establish clinical utility.
Note: The analysis reflects the aggregated findings of the systematic review, which included American Ginseng among 52 studies but did not isolate specific quantitative results for it. Conclusions are limited by the lack of detailed data reporting for individual phytonutrients.
Original Study Reference
Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by plants and phytonutrients: a systematic review of human trials.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2022
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 33650944)
