February 26, 2024, 6:29 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Ginseng is considered a time-tested remedy in natural medicine. The root, which primarily grows in Asia, can help with fatigue, tiredness, and potency issues. It’s also suitable for athletes—a study shows why.
Not all ginseng is the same: There are significant differences in the root. For one, age plays an important role, as the plant’s effects become stronger the older it is. Additionally, the root is differentiated based on its origin: Korean (Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer), Siberian, Chinese, and American ginseng are available. The first is said to have the best effect due to its high concentration of ginsenosides. This ingredient is mainly used for fatigue, tiredness, tension, and inner restlessness. According to a study, ginseng also supports muscle recovery, making it particularly interesting for athletes.
Overview
Various Studies on the Effects of Ginseng on Muscles
Researchers at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya in Barcelona have now examined more closely the effects of ginseng on muscle damage in healthy adults caused by exercise.1 In their study, the researchers defined the specific focus of their work.
Objectives and Research Questions
The researchers wanted to know, …
- “What physiological benefits can healthy adults gain from the regular intake of ginseng compared to those who do not consume this supplement?”
- “What role does ginseng play during the recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage?”
- “Is there a positive correlation between ginseng intake and the healing of muscle injuries in healthy adults compared to those who do not take it?”
Database Analysis
Researchers conducted a database search for articles and studies up to April 2023 containing the following three keywords: ginseng, sports, and muscle damage. The search identified 766 studies, all of which had to undergo screening and meet certain inclusion criteria. This included all works addressing the aforementioned research questions. Subsequently, two reviewers evaluated the studies. The studies included a total of 276 participants, regardless of gender. Some of the research specifically observed athletic individuals. The type of ginseng varied from study to study, with Korean, American, Chinese, and red ginseng being used. However, participants or athletes always took the ginseng orally.
Study Integration
In total, the studies included 276 participants, regardless of gender. Some of the research specifically observed athletic individuals. The type of ginseng varied from study to study, with Korean, Siberian, Chinese, and American ginseng being used. However, participants or athletes always took the ginseng orally.
Also of interest: Glucose and insulin levels were also analyzed.