The Quest for Energy: Panax Ginseng

I've heard people pushing ginseng but never really knew why. Looking at this list of benefits I see something that our society is obsessed with so it all makes sense (and, yes, I'm talking about sex). Somehow looking at the dose info I am pretty sure I'm going with coffee or chocolate for my kicks.

PANAX GINSENG
With a stellar 2,000-year-old reputation for safety and effectiveness, the famed plant is a feel-good tonic and energy-boosting herb of the highest order. It revitalizes, combats stress, bolsters the immune system, improves concentration and is even known to stimulate sexual desire. Indigenous to China and cultivated worldwide, the herb is sometimes called Chinese, Korean, Asian or American ginseng.

How It Works
Ginseng contains ginsenosides, compounds that target and energize different parts of the body.

Suggested Dose
Take 100 to 250 mg a day, standardized to contain at least 7 percent ginsenosides. Or consume two to three slices of the dried white root daily (chew until soft, then swallow). Avoid long term use (more than three months) because of rare side effects such as diarrhea. And don't combine it with large amounts of caffeine because of its stimulant effects.

Psychology Today, April 2005