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Ginseng |
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Ginseng - Korean or Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus).
The best known varieties of ginseng are Korean or Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). Korean ginseng is considered to be more stimulating than Siberian ginseng. Ginseng has long been used in Chinese medicine as a tonic. The enhance to body’s ability to cope with stress, improve energy metabolism, lower blood sugar, blood immunity, enhance liver function, and regulate cell growth. Chemicals that are found in ginseng are arabinose, camphor, ginsenosides, mucilage, panaxosides, resin, saponin, and starch. Ginseng is prized in the Orient for its purported curative properties. Based on an ancient Chinese legend, early emperors proclaimed it a panacea to be ingested or used in lotions and soaps. The genus name, Panax, is derived from the Greek "panakeia," which means universal remedy. The term "ginseng" is derived from the Chinese term "jen-shen," which means "in the image of a man." Ginseng roots shaped like the human body are considered highly desirable. In particular, old roots (some may be nearly a century old) are prized because their longevity is claimed to be transferred to the person who consumes them. Ginseng root is reputed to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, protect against stress, enhance strength and promote relaxation. Koreans have fed ginseng to race horses to enhance their performance on the track. Although some European and Asian studies appear to support some of these claims, American researchers remain skeptical. Ginseng is not a drug and should not be taken as such. It is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a "generally recognized safe food" (GRAS). How This Works in Your Body:
Where This is Found: Ginseng plant How to Use: Available as: root Cautions: Do not take if you:
Have any acute infections Consult your doctor if: Your condition does not improve after two weeks of medicinal use of this
herb. More effective and safer treatments exist. Pregnancy: Do not take this herb unless prescribed by your physician Breastfeeding: Do not take this herb unless prescribed by your physician Infants and Children: It is hazardous to treat infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation. Storage: Keep in a cool and dry location and away from direct light, but do not
freeze. Safe dosage: It is advised that you consult with your physician for the proper dose
for your condition Toxicity: Regarded as safe if taken in appropriate quantities and for limited periods of time
Side
Effects:
If You Are Taking Herbs Be Careful If Planning Surgery Using herbal supplements before undergoing surgery may interfere with anesthesia or put patients at risk for complications such as increased bleeding. Patients would do well to lay off the herbs before going under the knife. There is an unspoken 'don't ask, don't tell' policy in most doctors' offices, where physicians don't ask and patients rarely tell about their herbs or dietary supplements. The patient's silence could be deadly, since many herbs can increase bleeding time during and after surgery, cause changes in blood pressure and prolong the effects of anesthesia. Because people may not regard herbs as medication, they may be unaware herbal supplements can carry side-effects. Some supplements that can interfere with bleeding time during surgery include ginkgo, feverfew, ginger and vitamin E. In addition, ginseng may trigger high blood pressure, while garlic supplements may lower blood pressure. Herbs that can intensify or prolong anesthesia include St. John' s wort and kava kava. All herbal supplements be stopped two weeks prior to elective surgery, no matter how minor. Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, San Diego, February 23, 2001
The Secret Solution to Male Virility By Douglas MacKay, ND Throughout history, the erect penis has been a symbol of power and virility. For men, a rigid penis is not only the centerpiece of successful reproduction, but also provides pleasure, bolsters self-esteem and fosters intimacy. And, let’s not forget the importance of sex in reducing stress and having fun too. Raising the penis from a dependent position to an erect position is a complex event. Everything from mood, setting and company to the health of the heart, blood vessels and nerves are involved in becoming erect. Taking into consideration the general health status of the average adult male, it is no great surprise that most men can’t get a rise. An astonishing 50 percent of all men, ages 40-70, struggle with the ability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual function. The complex nature of sexuality, taboos and cultural restrictions muddy the water when it comes to talking about sexual problems. Add to this the fact that people accept losing their sex life as a “normal” problem that comes with getting older. The Pill-Shaped “Answer” In 1998, the first effective oral drug treatment for erectile dysfunction, sildenafil (Viagra), took the world by storm. Viagra quickly elevated itself to a household word. For a while, not a day could go by without hearing a Viagra joke or seeing it plastered on the side of a racecar or sports stadium. Just when excitement around Viagra began to fade, knock-off drugs flooded the media to remind us that no matter what, at least we could still get a prescription for an erection. What was once considered a taboo topic – not even shared with a doctor – became openly discussed among mature males. The marketing onslaught of various drugs used for erectile dysfunction quickly increased awareness and the number of patients seeking treatment. Approximately 30 million males in the United States alone suffer from some degree of erectile dysfunction. What does this mean? This means lots of dollar signs for anyone claiming to have the magic bullet. The success of Viagra and its counterparts continues to drive a feverish pursuit of other agents that can ultimately compete with these synthetic love drugs. There is a multi-million dollar market for treating for erectile dysfunction. The pharmaceutical giants are not the only ones trying to get a slice of this pie. Any compound that promises sexual potency has the potential to be extremely profitable. Drug and health food stores are loaded with agents purported to alleviate male sexual problems. Much of the perceived benefit of available products is based on popular or cultural belief and personal testimonials. Adequate scientific evidence to support natural agents to help to treat erectile dysfunction is minimal. Compounds that have been scientifically researched appear to have a modest effect. The Real Cure Of course, when it comes to drugs there are no miracles. Like other pharmaceuticals, Viagra and the newer drugs are mere patchwork, providing short-term treatment but nothing in the way of a “cure.” Plus, the drugs are expensive and their long-term risks are unknown. Natural and non-prescription options are attractive, however, because they claim health benefits beyond those related to erectile dysfunction and are inexpensive compared to prescription medicine. The amino acid L-arginine has a positive influence on blood vessel health and function, which indirectly improves the ability to achieve erection. Herbs like Panax ginseng and Lepidium meyenii (Maca) have been used for centuries as tonics to promote health and longevity. These herbs enhance physical performance, which includes sexual stamina. Researchers have determined that unhealthy blood vessels found in heart disease underlie some forms of erectile dysfunction. Among men with heart disease 75 percent also have problems with erections. In addition, men with high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes and smoking are substantially more likely not to be able to get erect. It is becoming more evident that problems with erection are merely a symptom of an unhealthy lifestyle. Modern habits such as television and computers contribute to social isolation and a sedentary lifestyle. No exercise causes man’s body to become soft and produces less testosterone. A poor diet high in processed food and refined carbohydrates reeks havoc on the circulatory system too. The nervous system is under constant attack by the buzz of cell phones, fax machines and other man-made stressors. It is no wonder most adult men have lost their mojo. Just like most things in medicine the best “cure” for erectile dysfunction is prevention. You simply can’t accept the notion that erectile dysfunction is a normal part of aging. To have a healthy love life until the golden years, we must take a look at our habits now! Five simple and important factors in avoiding erection problems include:
Losing the ability to get an erection is a sign of losing vitality. Do not ignore it. By addressing underlying heart disease, diabetes and unhealthy lifestyle factors, you can reverse the cause of erectile dysfunction. Douglas MacKay, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who is committed to the advancement of natural and preventive medicine. A national lecturer, Dr. MacKay divides his time between practice, research and advocacy, and has had several articles published in peer review medical journals. He also has a thriving family practice in the New Hampshire Seacoast area. The Makai Naturopathic Center, located in Dover, N.H., combines Naturopathic, Chiropractic and Chinese Medicine under one roof for a new standard in family medicine.
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