Nootropic is a term used to describe so-called “smart drugs” or “smart supplements” that can improve cognitive function. Those who want to optimize brain function and alertness may benefit from taking ginseng.
Ginseng is often referred to as an “adaptogen,” because they help us adapt to, or cope with, stress. There are 11 types of ginseng, including American, Korean, Chinese, Peruvian and Siberian ginseng. For many ginseng has been used to:
Increase feelings of energy.
Improve mental and physical performance.
Prevent the negative effects of stress and enhance the body’s response to stress.
Ginseng is taken for a great number of medical conditions. The active ingredient in ginseng are ginsenosides and, according to studies, about 40 different types of have been identified in the ginseng herb. Ginseng is used in traditional chinese medicine, throughout Asia and in indegenous communities in both North and South America.
How does Ginseng work in the body? Ginseng delays the onset and reduces the severity of the body’s short- and long-term response to stress (also known as the general adaptation syndrome). In lay man terms, it tells the adrenal glands to not react immediately and release hormones that cause stress and anxiety. When we think of stress we think of bills, politics, external forces that affect us-but internal stress on the body is often in the form of inflammation caused by food, diet, pollution, toxic substances, etc.
1. Boosts the Immune System
There has been extensive research showing improvement to the immune system from taking ginseng. The leaves, roots, and stems of the ginseng plant help achieve homeostasis and create resistance to illnesses and the high amount of antioxidants in ginseng can significantly reduce the chances of contracting an illness.
2. Improves Brain Function
Making sure that the brain stays healthy and active is a very important aspect of maintaining health. Diet and exercise are extremely important. The Journal of Ginseng Research found improvements in cognitive brain function after two weeks of taking ginseng. A 2015 study in the Journal of Ginseng Research also concluded that ginseng could help prevent brain deterioration.
3. Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of sickness, and killers, worldwide. With diets that cause high cholesterol and high blood pressure, a healthy vascular system is necessary to ensure the body works properly. Ginseng has been cited in numerous studies as a source that helps protect against Atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries caused by calcium deposits in the arteries.
4. Helps with Weight Loss
With the industrialization of food, lack of time to grow and cook our own food, and lack of control over the way foods are manufactured and processed, people worldwide are putting on extra weight. Obesity and health related diseases to being overweight are a problem worldwide. Ginseng helps improve insulin resistance, a common cause of obesity.
A healthy gut is also important in controlling weight. Studies conducted with the focus on gut bacteria (microbiota) showed that ginseng did assist with weight loss and did have a positive change to the gut microbiota. For those trying to lose weight, it is important to remember that a nutritious, primarily plant-based diet and regular exercise are help to maintain a healthy weight.
5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes is another very common disease due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. Foods with low nutritional value make it difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that ginseng is beneficial in normalizing blood sugar and has positive effects in diabetics or even those with prediabetes. Ginseng root improves insulin production and efficiency: studies show that ginseng extracts help by providing antioxidant protection that can help reduce free radicals in the cells of those with diabetes.
7. Anxiety and Depression
Stress is a major factor in why someone may have symptoms of depression and anxiety. Protecting the nervous system and making sure the nervous system is running optimally can help one deal with daily stress and may help reduce depression and anxiety. Ginseng has been reported to have antidepressant benefits.
8. Boosts Energy levels As previously mentioned, because ginseng has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, the body experiences less tiredness and increased energy levels.
You know what also helps brain function naturally? Turmeric
Turmeric is a rooted plant of the ginger family, cited for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and digestive health properties. Curcumin, the main chemical found in turmeric, is believed to provide many of the health benefits. Turmeric has been used as a spice to enhance food, especially in the Ayurvedic tradition, for over the past 4,000 years. Today, its use continues to be researched as an alternative treatment approach for many common illnesses, injuries, and chronic diseases.
Ginseng root can be consumed in many ways. Our Ginseng-Ginger-Turmeric fermented soda is an delicious way to add the benefits of these amazing roots to your diet.
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