The potential sexual benefits of Ginseng may help those with erectile dysfunction (ED). Clinical and preclinical studies suggest it improves erectile function by enhancing physiological responses. Ginseng affects tissue in the penis in various ways that may contribute to better erectile health and sexual performance.1
What Is Panax Ginseng?
Panax ginseng, commonly known as Korean ginseng, is a type of herbal plant used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia. It has potential health benefits, including its role in improving sexual function and potential to treat erectile dysfunction.
Ginseng is often classified into two main types: “red” and “white” ginseng. The difference lies in the processing method. Red ginseng is steamed and dried, which gives it a reddish-brown color, while white ginseng is air-dried without steaming. Red ginseng is believed to have enhanced bioactive compounds and may be more potent due to the steaming process.
The term “Panax” in Panax ginseng refers to the genus of the ginseng plant and is derived from the Greek word “panacea,” which means “cure-all.” Panax ginseng is believed to have properties that may help the body adapt to stress and improve overall well-being. It is thought to work by enhancing circulation, reducing oxidative stress, and potentially affecting the release of certain chemicals in the body that may promote blood flow and sexual function.
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How Does Panax Ginseng Work Sexually?
Panax ginseng is believed to enhance sexual function through its active compounds, ginsenosides. These compounds are said to influence erectile function and libido. Ginsenosides promote chemical activity in the body that relaxes smooth muscles and improves blood flow within certain parts of the penis. These effects are thought to improve erectile functioning. This mechanism could be beneficial in treating erectile dysfunction, where impaired blood flow is a common issue.
Panax ginseng may impact sexual drive through hormonal and nerve pathways. Ginsenosides can increase testosterone levels and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, respectively. Increased testosterone levels are directly correlated with enhanced sexual desire, and may treat issues of reduced sex drive commonly observed in sexual disorders. Moreover, ginsenosides influence neurotransmitters such as dopamine and acetylcholine, which are involved in sexual arousal and desire, offering potential therapeutic benefits for various sexual dysfunctions.2
Does Panax Ginseng Work for Female Sexual Arousal Disorder?
Panax ginseng has shown potential benefits for female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSAD). A systematic review study was done on the efficacy of natural products for female sexual dysfunction (FSD). This study found that Panax ginseng was effective in treating sexual arousal and sexual desire compared to placebo.3
Additionally, a study on menopausal women revealed that the oral administration of ginseng extracts improved sexual arousal, suggesting it might be used as an alternative medicine to enhance sexual life in menopausal women.4
What Are the Ginseng Benefits Sexually?
The potential sexual benefits of Panax ginseng are thought to come from active components known as ginsenosides. These ginsenosides influence the body by impacting specific cell tissue in blood vessels and nerves surrounding blood vessels. This activity enhances blood flow to the genital area, a key mechanism in achieving and maintaining erections.
Additionally, ginsenosides interact with steroid receptors and neurotransmitters like dopamine and acetylcholine, potentially improving libido and sexual performance. However, the onset of these effects can vary based on individual factors and dosage.
Ginseng has been studied for its potential to improve erectile dysfunction and enhance libido. Clinical studies have shown that ginseng can improve erectile function and overall sexual satisfaction in men with erectile dysfunction. This is primarily attributed to its ability to relax smooth muscle in the penis.
While some effects can be noticed relatively quickly, the full benefits of ginseng might require consistent use over weeks or months. It’s important to note that individual responses to ginseng can vary, and its use should be considered as part of a broader approach to treating sexual disorders.2
Is Panax Ginseng for Sexual Disorders Effective?
Panax ginseng has shown efficacy in treating sexual disorders, particularly erectile dysfunction. Clinical studies have demonstrated its positive impact on erectile performance and sexual satisfaction, with improvements noted in erection rigidity, penetration, and maintenance. These effects are attributed to ginsenosides, which affect tissues in a way that can increase blood flow to the genital area. This action is crucial for erectile function. This evidence supports Panax ginseng’s potential as a beneficial treatment for sexual disorders.
Research evidence shows that Panax ginseng may be effective in treating sexual disorders. Clinical studies have shown improvements in erectile function and sexual satisfaction among men with erectile dysfunction using Korean red ginseng. Its efficacy is attributed to active components like ginsenosides, which may work by promoting blood flow and erectile response.2
How Long Does it Take for Ginseng to Work?
It can take between 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use for the effects of ginseng to work for erectile dysfunction, according to studies. One study involved men with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction. They took 900 mg of Korean red ginseng three times daily for 8 weeks and showed an improvement in erectile performance and sexual satisfaction.2
Another study administered Korean red ginseng (1,000 mg) three times daily for 12 weeks to men with erectile dysfunction and reported marked improvement in erectile function. Individual responses to ginseng may vary, and these time frames might not be representative of everyone.2
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What Factors Impact Panax Ginseng Benefits Sexually?
One key factor impacting ginseng sexual benefits is the type and dosage used. Different species of ginseng, such as Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium), have shown varying impacts on sexual behavior and libido.
For instance, Asian ginseng has been found to increase testosterone levels and improve copulatory behavior in animal studies, with these effects being confirmed in case-control studies in humans. The impact of American ginseng on testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels appears to be different.
Additionally, the duration of ginseng treatment plays a significant role. Studies have shown that the length of time a person takes it can influence its effectiveness at enhancing sexual function. For example, certain clinical studies mentioned in the article showed improvements in erectile function and sexual satisfaction throughout 8 to 12 weeks of ginseng administration.
The active components of Panax ginseng, ginsenosides, are responsible for inducing chemical actions in the body that may enhance erectile function. Ginsenosides have been specifically mentioned for their roles in enhancing sexual performance.2
Possible Side Effects of Panax Ginseng
While Panax ginseng is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience adverse effects. These effects are usually mild and reversible, but it’s important to be aware of them, especially for those who may be more sensitive or use ginseng with other medications or supplements.
Possible side effects of Panax ginseng include:5
- Indigestion
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia
- Constipation
- Low energy
- Headache
- Skin disorders
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nosebleeds
- Rapid heartbeat
*Dietary supplements (including vitamins, supplements, herbs, and natural medicines) are not regulated the same way as medications by the FDA. Before being sold to the public, these products do not have the same clinical trials to determine their safety and efficacy. You should consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new dietary supplement.
How to Take Panax Ginseng for Sexual Benefits
Panax ginseng is used for its potential benefits in improving sexual function. It is available in various forms, including capsules, teas, and extracts.
The recommended daily dosage typically ranges from 100 to 600 mg in capsule form, although some sources may advise higher doses. For those preferring to use the dry root, a daily amount of 0.5 to 2 g can be either chewed or prepared as tea. Standardizing ginsenoside content in these products is important for consistent effects, with a common recommendation being 1.5 to 7 percent ginsenoside content.
The specific dosage and form may vary depending on the product, so following the manufacturer’s instructions or a healthcare provider’s advice is crucial.6
What’s the Best Time to Take Ginseng for Sex?
When considering the best time to take ginseng for sexual enhancement, particularly for addressing erectile dysfunction (ED), it’s essential to look at the patterns observed in clinical studies and traditional practices. Research indicates that the benefits of ginseng, especially Panax ginseng, tend to accumulate over time.
Clinical studies often administer ginseng daily for extended periods, ranging from several weeks to months. For instance, a clinical trial highlighted in the research showed notable improvements in ED with a daily intake of 350 mg of standardized Korean ginseng berry extract over eight weeks. In another trial, participants consumed 1000 mg of Korean Red Ginseng three times daily for 12 weeks, leading to significant improvements in erection quality for 66.6% of the patients.
This cumulative effect suggests that ginseng is most effective when taken consistently over time rather than as an immediate solution before sexual activity. The studies do not pinpoint an optimal time of day for consuming ginseng for sexual health benefits. However, its stimulating properties might make it better for some to take in the morning. As always, following the dosing instructions specific to the ginseng product and consulting with a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen is advisable.1
Where To Get Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng is widely available and can be found in various forms at health food stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. It is commonly sold as capsules, powders, or liquid extracts. While it is generally accessible, the quality and authenticity of ginseng products can vary.
Purchasing Panax ginseng from reputable sources is advisable to ensure the product’s potency and authenticity. Some individuals may find Panax ginseng in the supplement section of grocery stores, but a broader selection is often found through specialized health and wellness retailers or online platforms.
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Potential Risks of Taking Panax Ginseng for Sexual Disorders
Panax ginseng, which has claims of potential benefits in enhancing sexual function, is not without risks. A significant concern with ginseng, as highlighted in the study, is its potential for misuse and overuse, leading to various adverse effects. Additionally, the market for ginseng is rife with issues like inaccurate labeling and inconsistencies in product quality.
Because of this variability in ginseng products, some may contain lower doses than advertised, reducing their efficacy, or higher doses increasing the risk of side effects. Mixed research results on the efficacy and safety of ginseng in sexual disorders add another layer of complexity, making it challenging to standardize dosing and predict outcomes.
Who Should Not Take Panax Ginseng?
Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid taking Panax ginseng due to potential risks and interactions.
People who should not take ginseng include those who:7
- Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions: Ginseng’s estrogen-like effects can be problematic in hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. The herb’s ability to act like estrogen might worsen these conditions.
- People with cardiovascular issues: Those with heart conditions, especially those prone to arrhythmias or who have hypertension, should be cautious. Ginseng can affect blood pressure and heart rhythm, as evidenced by increased blood pressure and heart rate.
- Patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications: Ginseng can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, potentially reducing their effectiveness. This interaction could increase the risk of blood clots or bleeding.
- Individuals with autoimmune diseases: Ginseng can stimulate the immune system and might exacerbate multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases.
- People with bipolar disorder: Given the reported cases of manic episodes triggered by ginseng use, individuals with bipolar disorder should avoid it.
- Those allergic to ginseng: Anyone who has shown signs of allergy to ginseng or similar plants should avoid its use, as it can cause severe allergic reactions.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: The safety of ginseng during pregnancy and lactation is not well-established, and there are concerns about potential effects on fetal development.
Drug Interactions With Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng can interact with various medications and substances, potentially impacting their efficacy or causing adverse effects. Ginseng may interfere with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. It could also affect blood sugar levels, requiring careful monitoring and potential adjustment of diabetes medications. Additionally, ginseng may influence blood pressure, potentially affecting individuals taking antihypertensive drugs.
Medications that can interact with ginseng include:7
- Imatinib: As mentioned, ginseng can interact with imatinib, potentially leading to increased plasma levels and hepatotoxicity.
- Warfarin and other Anticoagulants: Ginseng can alter the effects of warfarin and similar anticoagulant medications, affecting blood clotting mechanisms.
- Medications metabolized by CYP3A4: Since ginseng can influence the activity of CYP3A4, it may interact with a wide range of drugs metabolized by this enzyme.
- Hypertensive Drugs: Ginseng can affect blood pressure, potentially interfering with the action of antihypertensive medications.
- Diabetic Medications: Ginseng may influence blood sugar levels, thus interacting with insulin or oral diabetes medications.
- Immune-modulating Drugs: Given its potential effects on the immune system, ginseng might interact with medications used for autoimmune diseases or after organ transplants.
This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with ginseng. You should talk with your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before using ginseng.
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About the Sexual Benefits of Ginseng
When considering the use of ginseng for its potential sexual benefits, start by talking to your primary healthcare provider about an evaluation. They already understand your health history and may be able to evaluate your erectile dysfunction symptoms. Or, they may refer you to a specialist to evaluate your sexual functioning issues. Alternatively, if you do not have a primary provider, an online platform offering sexual dysfunction treatment services can be a good place to start, such as Circle Medical and Hims.
Questions to ask your care team about ginseng for men include:
- What is the appropriate dosage for me to minimize potential side effects?
- Are there any known interactions between ginseng and my current medications?
- Should I inform my therapist or mental health professional about incorporating ginseng into my routine?
- How long should I use ginseng before assessing its impact on my sexual health?
- Are there specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should consider while using ginseng?
- Can ginseng be used alongside other treatments for sexual disorders?
- What are ginseng’s potential risks and benefits based on my medical history?
- How frequently should I follow up with my healthcare provider to monitor progress?
- Are there any signs or symptoms I should be vigilant for that might indicate a need for adjustments in my ginseng regimen?
- Is it advisable to undergo any specific tests or assessments to gauge the effectiveness of ginseng for my sexual health?
- Are there alternative strategies or therapies that may complement the use of ginseng for sexual well-being?
- What is the expected timeline for experiencing potential improvements in sexual function with ginseng?
Other Treatment Options for Sexual Disorders
When addressing erectile dysfunction, various treatment options are available, each with its unique approach to enhancing sexual function. Research indicates that a combination of interventions may yield the most effective outcomes.
Treatment options for erectile dysfunction include:
- Medication for erectile dysfunction: Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as sildenafil (Viagra), are medications for erectile dysfunction that enhance blood flow within the penis, facilitating erections. Research supports their efficacy in improving erectile function.
- Sex therapy: Counseling or psychotherapy focused on addressing psychological factors contributing to sexual disorders. Studies indicate that sex therapy can lead to improvements in sexual satisfaction and function.
- Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, can positively impact sexual health.
- Vacuum erection devices: Mechanical devices that create a vacuum to draw blood into the penis, promoting an erection. Studies suggest their effectiveness in certain cases of erectile dysfunction.
- Penile implants: Surgical implants that provide a mechanical solution for achieving and maintaining erections.
- Hormone replacement therapy: For individuals with hormonal imbalances affecting sexual function, hormone replacement therapy may be considered.
Panax Ginseng in Combination With Other Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
Combining Panax ginseng with other established treatments for erectile dysfunction is a subject of ongoing research. While ginseng shows potential benefits, its safety and efficacy in combination with other therapies may vary. It is crucial for individuals considering this approach to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of sexual health.
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Prescriber’s Tips
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Nobili, S., Lucarini, E., Murzilli, S., Vanelli, A., Di Cesare Mannelli, L., & Ghelardini, C. (December 17, 2021). Efficacy Evaluation of Plant Products in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction Related to Diabetes. Nutrients, 13(12), 4520. MDPI. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8707335/
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Leung, K. W., & Wong, A. S. T. (July 1, 2013). Ginseng and male reproductive function. Spermatogenesis, 3(3), e26391. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3861174/
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Sha’ari, N., Woon, L. S.-C., Sidi, H., Das, S., Bousman, C. A., & Mohamed Saini, S. (September 26, 2021). Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine, 93, 153760, Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638031/
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Oh, K.-J., Chae, M.-J., Lee, H.-S., Hong, H.-D., & Park, K. (April 7, 2010). Effects of Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal in menopausal women: placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover clinical study. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 7(4 Pt 1), 1469-1477. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20141583/
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Lee, N.-H., Yoo, S.-R., Kim, H.-G., Cho, J.-H., & Son, C. G. (November 18, 2012). Safety and Tolerability of Panax ginseng Root Extract: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Trial in Healthy Korean Volunteers. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(11), 1061–1069. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3501011/
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Kiefer, D., & Pantuso, T. (October 15, 2003). Panax Ginseng. American Family Physician, 68(8), 1539-1542. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1015/p1539.html
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Paik, D. J., & Lee, C. H. (April, 2015). Review of cases of patient risk associated with ginseng abuse and misuse. Journal of Ginseng Research, 39(2), 89–93. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4452531/
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