Ginseng, a widely recognized adaptogen and antioxidant, is gaining attention for its potential health benefits. A key player in ginseng’s arsenal is its bioactive compounds known as ginsenosides, which have proven to possess powerful antioxidant properties. These antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, highly reactive molecules that can wreak havoc on our bodies by causing oxidative stress.
While our bodies naturally produce free radicals as a byproduct of cellular processes, their levels can soar due to external factors like pollution, radiation, and an unhealthy diet. When the production of free radicals surpasses our body’s ability to detoxify and repair the resulting damage, oxidative stress sets in. This imbalance can lead to a host of health issues, including chronic inflammation, accelerated aging, and diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.
Ginsenosides, found abundantly in ginseng, possess the remarkable ability to scavenge and neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Moreover, they kickstart the activity of essential antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, further strengthening the body’s natural defense system against harmful oxidative processes. Remarkably, ginseng has also been found to combat lipid peroxidation, the process responsible for damaging cell membranes and ultimately leading to cell dysfunction and death. By shielding cells from oxidative harm, ginseng proves itself as a valuable ally in our pursuit of balanced health and well-being.
Chinese researchers conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis aimed at exploring the influence of ginseng consumption on biomarkers associated with oxidative stress. After thoroughly examining the results of multiple randomized clinical trials, the team selected twelve appropriate studies to include in their analysis. Notably, the findings unveiled the significant impact of ginseng supplementation on diminishing serum malondialdehyde levels, a byproduct of lipid peroxidation. Moreover, the research revealed that ginseng intake led to elevated levels of serum total antioxidant capacity, oxidative dismutase, glutathione, and glutathione reductase.
The study revealed ginseng reduced oxidative stress by regulating a variety of biomakers and can be used as a natural antioxidant.
A recent clinical trial conducted by South Korean researchers has revealed promising results regarding the potential therapeutic benefits of Korean red ginseng in relieving stress. Using a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled methodology, the researchers meticulously analyzed neurotransmitter and gene expression changes to better understand the impact of this traditional herbal remedy.
The trial enlisted a group of 90 healthy men suffering from stress, who were randomly divided into two groups. Over the course of eight weeks, one group received a daily dosage of four tablets containing Korean red ginseng, while the other group received a placebo. To accurately gauge the participants’ response to stress, they were given a self-administered questionnaire. Additionally, blood samples were collected to measure any alterations in neurotransmitters and their related gene expression.
Epinephrine, a hormone released during times of stress, was a key focus of the study. Astoundingly, the researchers discovered a significant reduction in epinephrine levels among those who underwent the Korean red ginseng treatment, in contrast to the participants who received the placebo.
Serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with stress regulation, also played a vital role in the investigation. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to heightened stress responses, while an excess of cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can exacerbate stress. Interestingly, participants with higher stress scores experienced smaller decreases in serotonin levels and smaller increases in cortisol when administered Korean red ginseng, as opposed to those who were given the placebo.
These intriguing findings suggest that Korean red ginseng supplementation might effectively reduce stress responses within the neurotransmitter system.
The Korean red ginseng extract used in this trial contains various ginsenosides, including Rb1, Rg3, Rg1, Rc, Rf, Re, and Rd. These ginsenosides are naturally occurring in ginseng and have limited bioactivity. Therefore, in order to maximize the anti-stress effects, it would be more beneficial to utilize a ginseng extract that contains a higher concentration of minor ginsenosides or rare ginsenosides.
Minor ginsenosides, which are metabolized from major ginsenosides, possess greater bioactivity and potency compared to their major counterparts. Fortunately, there is a brand called Redsenol currently available on the market that offers rare ginsenosides. Specifically, the Redsenol-1 Plus Noble Ginsenoside Capsules contain highly bioactive rare ginsenoside monomers that are even more potent than common Panax/Korean red ginseng extracts. These capsules boast an impressive rare ginsenoside content of up to 20%, including compounds such as Rg3(R, S), Rh1(S, R), Rh2(R, S), Rk1, Rk3, Rg5, Rh3, Rh4, Rk2, aPPD(S, R), and aPPT(S, R).
To harness the full potential of ginseng as an antioxidant and stress reliever, it is recommended to incorporate a daily intake of a ginseng extract rich in rare and minor ginsenosides. This strategic selection will enable you to truly optimize the beneficial effects of this powerful herb.
References:
Ren, Q., Lin, J., Wang, H., Huang, M., Tan, X., Huang, W., & Xu, Y. (2023). Effects of ginseng consumption on the biomarkers of oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytotherapy research : PTR, 37(8), 3262–3274. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.7893
Yoon, Jihyun & Park, Byoungjin & Hong, Kyung-Won & Jung, Dong-Hyuk. (2023). The effects of Korean Red Ginseng on stress-related neurotransmitters and gene expression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Ginseng Research. 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.08.001.
