Supplement

Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)

Panax ginseng is a root used for centuries in Asian herbal medicine, and its ginsenosides are thought to boost nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle and widens blood vessels. People most often look at it for erectile dysfunction, and small trials found erections went up, with the evidence rated moderate. Those studies were small, involving under 200 people in total, so larger trials would give a firmer picture.

Sources: PMID 12394711; PMID 8750052

Updated 30 September 2026
How we grade
59 studies cited

Best evidence: Grade B
Conditions studied: 41
Outcomes: 228
Graded outcomes: 09187

Evidence by condition

Strong
Moderate
Limited
Very limited

41 conditions

Male Sexual Dysfunction

Male Sexual Dysfunction: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Erections Small Increase	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	4 studies	195 people
Studies that measured erections A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary reportJ Urol · PMID 12394711 Clinical efficacy of Korean red ginseng for erectile dysfunctionInt J Impot Res · PMID 8750052 Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunctionAsian J Androl · PMID 16855773 Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunctionAsian J Androl · PMID 19234482
	Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	60 people
Studies that measured testosterone Effects of Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer saponins on male fertilityPanminerva Med · PMID 9063034
	High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			60 people
	Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			60 people
	Prolactin	Improves (the measure goes up)			60 people

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	124 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	182 people
Studies that measured insulin Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cardiovascular Risks in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled StudyKorean J Fam Med · PMID 22916320 Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Ginseng Res · PMID 35509826 Panax ginseng has no effect on indices of glucose regulation following acute or chronic ingestion in healthy volunteersBr J Nutr · PMID 19017419
	HbA1c	Improves (the measure goes down)		2 studies	476 people
Studies that measured hba1c Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patientsDiabetes Care · PMID 8721940 Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Chin J Integr Med · PMID 22139546
	Subjective Well-Being	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	36 people
Studies that measured subjective well-being Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trialJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 11424544 Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of lifeAnn Pharmacother · PMID 11895046
	Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	15 people
Studies that measured glycemic control Ginseng and ginsenoside Re do not improve β-cell function or insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetesDiabetes Care · PMID 21411505
	Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			702 people
	Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			106 people
	High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			753 people
	Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			657 people
	Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			803 people
	Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			741 people
	Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			36 people

Dyslipidemia

Blood glucose: improves
Insulin: changes; see studies
HbA1c: improves

Dyslipidemia: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	124 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	182 people
Studies that measured insulin Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cardiovascular Risks in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled StudyKorean J Fam Med · PMID 22916320 Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Ginseng Res · PMID 35509826 Panax ginseng has no effect on indices of glucose regulation following acute or chronic ingestion in healthy volunteersBr J Nutr · PMID 19017419
	HbA1c	Improves (the measure goes down)		2 studies	476 people
Studies that measured hba1c Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patientsDiabetes Care · PMID 8721940 Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Chin J Integr Med · PMID 22139546
	Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			702 people
	Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			106 people
	High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			753 people
	Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			657 people
	Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			803 people
	Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			741 people

Prediabetes

Blood glucose: improves
Insulin: changes; see studies
HbA1c: improves

Prediabetes: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	124 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	182 people
Studies that measured insulin Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cardiovascular Risks in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled StudyKorean J Fam Med · PMID 22916320 Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Ginseng Res · PMID 35509826 Panax ginseng has no effect on indices of glucose regulation following acute or chronic ingestion in healthy volunteersBr J Nutr · PMID 19017419
	HbA1c	Improves (the measure goes down)		2 studies	476 people
Studies that measured hba1c Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patientsDiabetes Care · PMID 8721940 Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Chin J Integr Med · PMID 22139546
	Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			702 people
	Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			106 people
	High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			753 people
	Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			657 people
	Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			803 people
	Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			741 people

General Athletic Performance

Blood Lactate (Exercise): improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Exercise Recovery: improves

General Athletic Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Blood Lactate (Exercise) Small Decrease	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	2 studies	63 people
Studies that measured blood lactate (exercise) No ergogenic effect of ginseng ingestionInt J Sport Nutr · PMID 8876346 No ergogenic effects of ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) during graded maximal aerobic exerciseJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 9336557
	Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	132 people
Studies that measured oxygen uptake Ginseng supplementation does not enhance healthy young adults' peak aerobic exercise performanceJ Am Coll Nutr · PMID 9791844 Ginseng treatment improves psychomotor performance at rest and during graded exercise in young athletesInt J Sport Nutr · PMID 10660868
	Exercise Recovery	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	24 people
Studies that measured exercise recovery Effects of ginseng supplementation on supramaximal exercise performance and short-term recoveryJ Strength Cond Res · PMID 11710653
	Immunoglobulin A	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	38 people
Studies that measured immunoglobulin a Effects of ginseng on secretory IgA, performance, and recovery from interval exerciseMed Sci Sports Exerc · PMID 12673155
	Lactate Dehydrogenase	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	10 people
Studies that measured lactate dehydrogenase Panax ginseng Supplementation Increases Muscle Recruitment, Attenuates Perceived Effort, and Accelerates Muscle Force Recovery After an Eccentric-Based Exercise in AthletesJ Strength Cond Res · PMID 32379240
	Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	20 people
	Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			74 people
	Body Mass Index (BMI)	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
	Cortisol	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
	Exercise Capacity	Improves (the measure goes up)			47 people
	Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			24 people
	Free Fatty Acids	Improves (the measure goes up)			8 people
	Heart Rate	Improves (the measure goes down)			105 people
	Muscle Soreness	Improves (the measure goes down)			10 people
	Peak power output (PPO)	Improves (the measure goes up)			62 people
	Rating of Perceived Exertion	Improves (the measure goes up)			54 people
	Respiratory Exchange Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			36 people
	Strength	Improves (the measure goes up)			53 people
	Waist-Hip Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people
	Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			74 people

Metabolic Health

Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
Cognition: improves
Blood glucose: improves

Metabolic Health: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Small Increase	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	2 studies	139 people
Studies that measured anti-oxidant enzyme profile Antioxidant effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer in healthy subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trialFood Chem Toxicol · PMID 21699953 Beneficial effects of Korean red ginseng on lymphocyte DNA damage, antioxidant enzyme activity, and LDL oxidation in healthy participants: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trialNutr J · PMID 22805313
	Cognition	Improves (the measure goes up)		9 studies	30 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Blood glucose	Improves (the measure goes down)		3 studies	124 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	182 people
Studies that measured insulin Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cardiovascular Risks in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled StudyKorean J Fam Med · PMID 22916320 Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Ginseng Res · PMID 35509826 Panax ginseng has no effect on indices of glucose regulation following acute or chronic ingestion in healthy volunteersBr J Nutr · PMID 19017419
	HbA1c	Improves (the measure goes down)		2 studies	476 people
Studies that measured hba1c Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patientsDiabetes Care · PMID 8721940 Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Chin J Integr Med · PMID 22139546
	Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	18 people
	Inflammation	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	18 people
	Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	20 people
	Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			702 people
	Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			106 people
	Body Mass Index (BMI)	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
	Cortisol	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
	DNA Damage	Changes; see studies			57 people
	High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			753 people
	LDL Oxidation	Improves (the measure goes down)			57 people
	Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			657 people
	Muscle Damage	Changes; see studies			18 people
	Oxidative Stress Biomarkers	Improves (the measure goes down)			82 people
	Strength	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people
	Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			803 people
	Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			741 people
	Waist-Hip Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people
	Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			57 people

Cognitive Improvement

Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms: improves
Attention: improves
Cognition: improves

Cognitive Improvement: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	1 study	158 people
Studies that measured alzheimer's disease symptoms Heat-processed ginseng enhances the cognitive function in patients with moderately severe Alzheimer's diseaseNutr Neurosci · PMID 22780999
	Attention Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	1 study	82 people
Studies that measured attention Efficacy of Panax ginseng Meyer Herbal Preparation HRG80 in Preventing and Mitigating Stress-Induced Failure of Cognitive Functions in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover TrialPharmaceuticals · PMID 32235339
	Cognition	Improves (the measure goes up)		9 studies	422 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Blood glucose	Improves (the measure goes down)		3 studies	60 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Subjective Well-Being	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	30 people
Studies that measured subjective well-being Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trialJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 11424544 Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of lifeAnn Pharmacother · PMID 11895046
	Cognitive Decline	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	61 people
	Processing Speed	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	32 people
	Reaction Time	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	222 people
	Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people
	Motor Control	Improves (the measure goes up)			112 people
	Stress Signs and Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			50 people
	Working Memory	Improves (the measure goes up)			28 people

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms: improves
Cognition: improves
Cognitive Decline: improves

Alzheimer’s Disease: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	1 study	295 people
Studies that measured alzheimer's disease symptoms Heat-processed ginseng enhances the cognitive function in patients with moderately severe Alzheimer's diseaseNutr Neurosci · PMID 22780999
	Cognition	Improves (the measure goes up)		9 studies	295 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Cognitive Decline	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	61 people
Studies that measured cognitive decline An open-label trial of Korean red ginseng as an adjuvant treatment for cognitive impairment in patients with Alzheimer's diseaseEur J Neurol · PMID 18684311

Mood Improvement

Cognition: improves
Subjective Well-Being: improves
Reaction Time: improves

Mood Improvement: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Cognition Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	9 studies	30 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Subjective Well-Being	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	143 people
Studies that measured subjective well-being Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trialJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 11424544 Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of lifeAnn Pharmacother · PMID 11895046
	Reaction Time	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	20 people
Studies that measured reaction time Improved cognitive performance in human volunteers following administration of guarana (Paullinia cupana) extract: comparison and interaction with Panax ginsengPharmacol Biochem Behav · PMID 15582012
	Mood	Improves (the measure goes up)			30 people

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Cognition: improves
Fatigue Symptoms: improves
Quality of Life: improves

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Cognition Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	9 studies	60 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			60 people
	Quality of Life	Improves (the measure goes up)			60 people

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Cognition: improves
Intermediate-Term Memory: improves
Short-Term Memory (Simple): improves

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Cognition Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	9 studies	90 people
Studies that measured cognition Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645 Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092 Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119 Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519 Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990 Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589 Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050 Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637 Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
	Intermediate-Term Memory	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	90 people
Studies that measured intermediate-term memory Cognition enhancing effect of panax ginseng in Korean volunteers with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trialTransl Clin Pharmacol · PMID 32055589
	Short-Term Memory (Simple)	Improves (the measure goes up)			90 people

Muscle Recovery

Blood glucose: improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Creatine Kinase: changes; see studies

Muscle Recovery: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	18 people
Studies that measured blood glucose Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921 Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416 Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
	Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	20 people
Studies that measured oxygen uptake Ginseng supplementation does not enhance healthy young adults' peak aerobic exercise performanceJ Am Coll Nutr · PMID 9791844 Ginseng treatment improves psychomotor performance at rest and during graded exercise in young athletesInt J Sport Nutr · PMID 10660868
	Creatine Kinase	Changes; see studies		1 study	20 people
Studies that measured creatine kinase Six weeks of Jilin ginseng root supplementation attenuates drop jump-related muscle injury markers in healthy female college studentsFood Funct · PMID 33507202
	Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	18 people
Studies that measured glycemic control Ginseng and ginsenoside Re do not improve β-cell function or insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetesDiabetes Care · PMID 21411505
	Inflammation	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	18 people
Studies that measured inflammation Effects of Panax ginseng supplementation on muscle damage and inflammation after uphill treadmill running in humansAm J Chin Med · PMID 21598413
	Lactate Dehydrogenase	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	10 people
	Muscle Damage	Changes; see studies			18 people
	Muscle Soreness	Improves (the measure goes down)			10 people
	Rating of Perceived Exertion	Improves (the measure goes up)			10 people

High Blood Pressure

Blood glucose: improves
Blood Pressure: improves
Triglycerides: improves

High Blood Pressure: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	64 people
Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			64 people
Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			64 people
Vascular Function	Improves (the measure goes up)			64 people

Obesity

Blood glucose: improves
Glycemic Control: improves

Obesity: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	15 people
	Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	15 people

Metabolic Syndrome

Blood glucose: improves
Insulin: changes; see studies
Glycemic Control: improves

Metabolic Syndrome: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	48 people
Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	48 people
Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	48 people
Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people
High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			48 people
LDL Oxidation	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people
Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people
Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			48 people

Overweight

Blood glucose: improves
Glycemic Control: improves

Overweight: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Blood glucose Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	3 studies	15 people
	Glycemic Control	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	15 people

Aerobic Exercise Performance

Blood Lactate (Exercise): improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Body Fat: improves

Aerobic Exercise Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Blood Lactate (Exercise) Small Decrease	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	2 studies	36 people
Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	105 people
Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			41 people
Exercise Capacity	Improves (the measure goes up)			28 people
Heart Rate	Improves (the measure goes down)			105 people
Rating of Perceived Exertion	Improves (the measure goes up)			36 people
Respiratory Exchange Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			36 people
Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			41 people

General Cardiovascular Health

Blood Flow: improves
Blood glucose: improves
Insulin: changes; see studies

General Cardiovascular Health: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Blood Flow Small Increase	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	2 studies	17 people
Blood glucose	Improves (the measure goes down)		3 studies	124 people
Insulin	Changes; see studies		3 studies	182 people
HbA1c	Improves (the measure goes down)		2 studies	476 people
Blood Pressure	Improves (the measure goes down)			702 people
Body Fat	Improves (the measure goes down)			106 people
High-density lipoprotein (HDL)	Improves (the measure goes up)			753 people
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			657 people
Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			803 people
Triglycerides	Improves (the measure goes down)			741 people
Vascular Function	Improves (the measure goes up)			17 people

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)

Depression Symptoms: improves
Insomnia Signs and Symptoms: improves
Fatigue Symptoms: improves

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome): outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Depression Symptoms Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	1 study	50 people
Insomnia Signs and Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	50 people
Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			50 people

Focus & Attention

Attention: improves
Processing Speed: improves
Reaction Time: improves

Focus & Attention: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Attention Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes up)	Small effect	1 study	32 people
Processing Speed	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	32 people
Reaction Time	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	32 people

Jumping Performance

Creatine Kinase: improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves

Jumping Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Creatine Kinase Moderate Decrease	Improves (the measure goes down)	Moderate effect	1 study	20 people
	Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	20 people

Schizophrenia

Depression Symptoms: improves
Schizophrenia symptoms: improves
Working Memory: improves

Schizophrenia: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Depression Symptoms Small Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect	1 study	64 people
Schizophrenia symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	64 people
Working Memory	Improves (the measure goes up)			64 people

Muscle Size & Strength

Body Fat: improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Lactate Dehydrogenase: improves

Muscle Size & Strength: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Body Fat Small Decrease	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect		74 people
Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	41 people
Lactate Dehydrogenase	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	10 people
Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	20 people
Body Mass Index (BMI)	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
Cortisol	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
Heart Rate	Improves (the measure goes down)			41 people
Muscle Soreness	Improves (the measure goes down)			10 people
Rating of Perceived Exertion	Improves (the measure goes up)			10 people
Strength	Improves (the measure goes up)			53 people
Waist-Hip Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people
Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			74 people

Anaerobic Exercise Performance

Body Fat: improves
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Exercise Recovery: improves

Anaerobic Exercise Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Body Fat Small Decrease	Improves (the measure goes down)	Small effect		41 people
Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	41 people
Exercise Recovery	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	24 people
Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			24 people
Heart Rate	Improves (the measure goes down)			41 people
Peak power output (PPO)	Improves (the measure goes up)			24 people
Weight	Improves (the measure goes down)			41 people

General Cancer Care and Prevention

Colorectal Cancer Risk: improves
Overall Cancer Risk: changes; see studies
Ovarian Cancer Risk: changes; see studies

General Cancer Care and Prevention: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Colorectal Cancer Risk Moderate Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Moderate effect		3,974 people
Overall Cancer Risk	Changes; see studies		2 studies	4,617 people
Ovarian Cancer Risk	Changes; see studies			3,974 people
Pancreatic Cancer Risk	Changes; see studies			3,974 people

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD Symptoms: improves
Serum DHEA: improves
Cortisol: improves

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
ADHD Symptoms Moderate Improvement	Improves (the measure goes down)	Moderate effect		70 people
Serum DHEA	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	70 people
Cortisol	Improves (the measure goes down)			70 people

Menopause

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Subjective Well-Being: improves
Depression Symptoms: improves

Menopause: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) No effect		NoneNo effect		72 people
Subjective Well-Being	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	384 people
Depression Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	384 people
Libido	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	28 people
Menopausal Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)		1 study	72 people
Estrogen	Changes; see studies			72 people
Hot Flash Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			384 people
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)	Improves (the measure goes down)			72 people
Total cholesterol	Improves (the measure goes down)			72 people

Immune Health

Adiponectin
Immunoglobulin A: improves
Fatigue Symptoms: improves

Immune Health: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Adiponectin No effect		NoneNo effect		80 people
Immunoglobulin A	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	38 people
Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			80 people
Liver Enzymes	Changes; see studies			80 people
Peak power output (PPO)	Improves (the measure goes up)			38 people

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Adiponectin
Fatigue Symptoms: improves
Liver Enzymes: changes; see studies

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	People
Adiponectin No effect		NoneNo effect	80 people
Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)		80 people
Liver Enzymes	Changes; see studies		80 people

Body Composition

Body Mass Index (BMI)
Testosterone: improves
Cortisol: improves

Body Composition: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Body Mass Index (BMI) No effect		NoneNo effect		20 people
Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	20 people
Cortisol	Improves (the measure goes down)			20 people
Strength	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people
Waist-Hip Ratio	Improves (the measure goes up)			20 people

Cycling Performance

Lactate Threshold
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Reaction Time: improves

Cycling Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Lactate Threshold No effect		NoneNo effect		15 people
Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	15 people
Reaction Time	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	15 people

Running Performance

Anaerobic Capacity
Blood glucose: improves
Blood Lactate (Exercise): changes; see studies

Running Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Anaerobic Capacity No effect		NoneNo effect		9 people
Blood glucose	Improves (the measure goes down)		3 studies	9 people
Blood Lactate (Exercise)	Changes; see studies		2 studies	9 people
Fat Oxidation	Improves (the measure goes up)			9 people
Heart Rate	Improves (the measure goes down)			9 people
Oxygen Cost of Exercise	Improves (the measure goes up)			9 people
Rating of Perceived Exertion	Improves (the measure goes up)			9 people

Soccer Performance

Lactate Threshold
Oxygen Uptake: improves
Reaction Time: improves

Soccer Performance: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People
Lactate Threshold No effect		NoneNo effect		15 people
Oxygen Uptake	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	15 people
Reaction Time	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	15 people

Erectile Dysfunction

Erections: improves

Erectile Dysfunction: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Erections	Improves (the measure goes up)		4 studies	86 people

Cardiovascular Disease

Blood Flow: improves

Cardiovascular Disease: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Blood Flow	Improves (the measure goes up)		2 studies	50 people

Common Cold

Vaccine Augmentation: improves

Common Cold: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Vaccine Augmentation	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	227 people

Flu

Vaccine Augmentation: improves

Flu: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Vaccine Augmentation	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	227 people

Infertility

Testosterone: improves

Infertility: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Testosterone	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	66 people

Sexual Health

Libido: improves

Sexual Health: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Libido	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	28 people

Sleep Health

Sleep Quality: improves

Sleep Health: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Sleep Quality	Improves (the measure goes up)		1 study	16 people

Fatigue

Fatigue Symptoms: improves

Fatigue: outcomes studied for Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)
Grade	Outcome	Effect	Size	Studies	People	Studies list
	Fatigue Symptoms	Improves (the measure goes down)			232 people

What the published studies found

9 automated readings

Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), for outcomes Dr. Grey has not graded yet. It is not a Dr. Grey grade and does not change one. How it is read

LDL cholesterol
Mixed or unclear: two readings of the studies disagreed. One reading found mixed results for LDL cholesterol, the other an improvement. The question is open.
7 studies counted of 8 read: 6 reviews and 1 trial (40 people in the trials).
1. Meta-analysis, 2024; 45 studies: improves (the review the verdict rests on). Effects of Ginseng Consumption on Cardiovascular Health Biomarkers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled TrialsPubMed 39387709
2. Meta-analysis, 2024; 29 studies; individuals with different health conditions: no clear difference. LDL-C, and HDL-C did not show significant changes The Effect of Ginseng Supplementation on Lipid Profile: GRADE-assessed Systematic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled TrialsPubMed 38877862
3. Meta-analysis, 2022; 23 studies; healthy adults to those with metabolic diseases: improves. low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly reduced Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysisPubMed 35509826
4. Meta-analysis, 2020; 27 studies, 1,245 people: no clear difference. The efficacy of ginseng supplementation on plasma lipid concentration in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysisPubMed 31987252
5. Meta-analysis, 2019; 10 studies; volunteers with metabolic syndrome parameters: improves. reduction in total and LDL-cholesterol levels Efficacy of Panax ginseng supplementation on blood lipid profile. A meta-analysis and systematic review of clinical randomized trialsPubMed 31315027
6. Systematic review, 2006; 34 studies: unclear: evidence too weak to tell. mixed results for an effect on lipids Systematic review of the effects of ginseng on cardiovascular risk factorsPubMed 16332943
7. Randomised trial, 2013; 40 people: no clear difference. no significant differences between the two groups The Effects of Panax Ginseng on Lipid Profile, Pro-oxidant: Antioxidant Status and High-sensitivity C Reactive Protein Levels in Hyperlipidemic Patients in IranPubMed 24130946
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Cardiovascular events
The best available review (2013, 17 studies, 1,747 people) found little or no difference in cardiovascular events. That review studied patients with coronary heart disease. The evidence is moderate.
1 study counted of 9 read: 1 review.
1. Systematic review, 2013; 17 studies, 1,747 people; patients with coronary heart disease: no clear difference (the review the verdict rests on). did not show significant effect on reducing cardiovascular events Oral Panax notoginseng Preparation for Coronary Heart Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled TrialsPubMed 24023585
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Memory
The studies disagree. A Cochrane review (2010, 5 studies) did not settle it for memory, while 4 of the 6 studies read found an improvement. The evidence is very weak.
6 studies counted of 10 read: 3 reviews and 3 trials (206 people in the trials).
1. Meta-analysis, 2010; 5 studies: unclear: evidence too weak to tell (the review the verdict rests on). suggested improvement of some aspects of cognitive function Ginseng for cognitionPubMed 21154383
2. Meta-analysis, 2025; 8 studies; individuals with cognitive or memory impairment: improves. Cognitive Benefits of Ginseng: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Changes in Mini-Mental State Examination and Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale ScoresPubMed 40774237
3. Meta-analysis, 2024; 15 studies, 671 people; healthy people, cognitive impairment, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's: improves. significant effect on memory improvement (SMD = 0.19 Effects of Ginseng on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-AnalysisPubMed 39474788
4. Randomised trial, 2024; 80 people; adults aged 55 to 75 with subjective memory impairment: improves. Efficacy and Safety of Panax ginseng Sprout Extract in Subjective Memory Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical TrialPubMed 38931306
5. Randomised trial, 2022; 76 people: no clear difference. no inter-group difference in the primary Safety and efficacy of dietary supplement (gintonin-enriched fraction from ginseng) in subjective memory impairment: A randomized placebo-controlled trialPubMed 34504764
6. Crossover trial, 2020; 50 people: improves. observed in the attention d2 and memory tests Efficacy of Panax ginseng Meyer Herbal Preparation HRG80 in Preventing and Mitigating Stress-Induced Failure of Cognitive Functions in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover TrialPubMed 32235339
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Mood
The best available review (2022) found an improvement in mood. That review studied patients with cancer. 3 of the 6 studies read agree; 2 found no clear difference, 1 found no clear answer. The evidence is limited.
6 studies counted of 11 read: 2 reviews and 4 trials (333 people in the trials).
1. Systematic review, 2022; patients with cancer: improves (the review the verdict rests on). resulted in improved quality of life and mood Panax ginseng and aging related disorders: A systematic reviewPubMed 35143871
2. Systematic review, 2003; 9 studies; various populations with underlying morbidity: unclear: evidence too weak to tell. demonstrated some degree of QoL improvement The effects of Panax ginseng on quality of lifePubMed 12605613
3. Randomised trial, 2025; 149 people; moderately stressed adults: improves. decreases in the PSS and negative affect score Effect of Hydroponically Grown Red Panax Ginseng on Perceived Stress Level, Emotional Processing, and Cognitive Functions in Moderately Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled StudyPubMed 40289951
4. Randomised trial, 2017; 112 people; patients with advanced cancer and cancer-related fatigue: no clear difference. A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Panax Ginseng for Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients With Advanced CancerPubMed 28874596
5. Crossover trial, 2015; 52 people; healthy middle-age adults: no clear difference. There were no significant effects on mood or blood glucose levels. Improved working memory performance following administration of a single dose of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) to healthy middle-age adultsPubMed 25778987
6. Crossover trial, 2001; 20 people; healthy young adult volunteers: improves. Dose dependent changes in cognitive performance and mood following acute administration of Ginseng to healthy young volunteersPubMed 11842896
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Muscle soreness
The best available review (2024, 53 studies) found an improvement in muscle soreness. That review studied people with exercise-induced muscle damage. 3 of the 6 studies read agree; 3 found no clear difference. The evidence is moderate.
6 studies counted of 7 read: 3 reviews and 3 trials (49 people in the trials).
1. Systematic review, 2024; 53 studies; people with exercise-induced muscle damage: improves (the review the verdict rests on). l-carnitine, curcumin, ginseng, polyphenols, and anthocyanins for reducing muscle soreness, all with moderate certainty of … Nutritional interventions for exercise-induced muscle damage: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized trialsPubMed 37460208
2. Systematic review, 2024; 6 studies; humans consuming Panax ginseng: no clear difference. Panax ginseng does not attenuate markers of EIMD The effect of Panax ginseng supplementation on markers of resistance exercise-induced muscle damage: a systematic reviewPubMed 38888561
3. Meta-analysis, 2022; 25 studies, 353 people: improves. significantly lower levels of indirect muscle damage markers Selected root plant supplementation reduces indices of exercise-induced muscle damage: A systematic review and meta-analysisPubMed 33196371
4. Crossover trial, 2022; 10 people; male track and field athletes: no clear difference. No significant effect of Panax ginseng on LDH, CK, and DOMS was observed Panax ginseng Supplementation Increases Muscle Recruitment, Attenuates Perceived Effort, and Accelerates Muscle Force Recovery After an Eccentric-Based Exercise in AthletesPubMed 32379240
5. Crossover trial, 2018; 19 people; 19 healthy men and women: improves. The Effects of a Korean Ginseng, GINST15, on Perceptual Effort, Psychomotor Performance, and Physical Performance in Men and WomenPubMed 29535582
6. Randomised trial, 2013; 20 people; well-trained male volunteers: no clear difference. No other significant differences were identified between the groups The effects of Panax notoginseng on delayed onset muscle soreness and muscle damage in well-trained males: a double blind randomised controlled trialPubMed 23642942
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Muscle strength
The studies read are too weak to tell whether Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng) changes muscle strength. The evidence is very weak.
4 studies counted of 11 read: 4 trials (170 people in the trials).
1. Crossover trial, 2022; 10 people; male track and field athletes: improves. significantly higher in the Panax ginseng Panax ginseng Supplementation Increases Muscle Recruitment, Attenuates Perceived Effort, and Accelerates Muscle Force Recovery After an Eccentric-Based Exercise in AthletesPubMed 32379240
2. Randomised trial, 2021; 20 people; healthy female college students: improves. Six weeks of Jilin ginseng root supplementation attenuates drop jump-related muscle injury markers in healthy female college studentsPubMed 33507202
3. Randomised trial, 2018; 117 people; sedentary healthy adults: no clear difference. no differences in muscular strength during exercise training Effect of high-dose ginsenoside complex (UG0712) supplementation on physical performance of healthy adults during a 12-week supervised exercise program: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trialPubMed 29719466
4. Randomised trial, 2016; 23 people; middle-aged and older adults: no clear difference. Panax ginseng and Salvia miltiorrhiza supplementation during eccentric resistance training in middle-aged and older adults: A double-blind randomized control trialPubMed 27912940
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Respiratory infections
The best available review (2021, 39 studies, 16,797 people) found an improvement in respiratory infections. 3 of the 7 studies read agree; 2 found no clear answer, 2 found no clear difference. The evidence is moderate.
7 studies counted of 11 read: 3 reviews and 4 trials (1,582 people in the trials).
1. Systematic review, 2021; 39 studies, 16,797 people: improves (the review the verdict rests on). Effects of select dietary supplements on the prevention and treatment of viral respiratory tract infections: a systematic review of randomized controlled trialsPubMed 33858268
2. Meta-analysis, 2020; 10 studies; healthy adults: unclear: evidence too weak to tell. significant effect on SAURIs incidence (RR = 0.69 Ginseng integrative supplementation for seasonal acute upper respiratory infections: A systematic review and meta-analysisPubMed 32951718
3. Systematic review, 2011; 5 studies, 747 people; healthy adults: unclear: evidence too weak to tell. tendency toward a lower incidence of having at least one common cold North American (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) Preparations for Prevention of the Common Cold in Healthy Adults: A Systematic ReviewPubMed 19592479
4. Randomised trial, 2012; 293 people; patients with early-stage, untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia: no clear difference. no significant differences of the 2 a priori primary end points A randomized, controlled trial of Panax quinquefolius extract (CVT-E002) to reduce respiratory infection in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemiaPubMed 22266154
5. Randomised trial, 2011; 783 people; influenza-vaccinated community-dwelling adults: no clear difference. incidence of LCCUs in the ITT group was 5.5%, 5.2%, and 4.6% Efficacy and Safety of CVT-E002, a Proprietary Extract of Panax quinquefolius in the Prevention of Respiratory Infections in Influenza-Vaccinated Community-Dwelling Adults: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled TrialPubMed 23074661
6. Randomised trial, 2005; 279 people; adults with history of at least 2 colds: improves. mean number of colds per person was lower Efficacy of an extract of North American ginseng containing poly-furanosyl-pyranosyl-saccharides for preventing upper respiratory tract infections: a randomized controlled trialPubMed 16247099
7. Randomised trial, 1996; 227 people; 227 volunteers visiting private practices in Milan: improves. frequency of influenza or common cold between weeks 4 and 12 was 42 cases in … Efficacy and safety of the standardised Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold [corrected]PubMed 8879982
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Sleep quality
The studies read are too weak to tell whether Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng) changes sleep quality. The evidence is very weak.
3 studies counted of 8 read: 3 trials (103 people in the trials).
1. Randomised trial, 2020; 50 people: no clear difference. no significant differences in the secondary outcome measurements Efficacy of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) for middle-aged and moderate level of chronic fatigue patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trialPubMed 31987248
2. Randomised trial, 2013; 38 people; patients with fibromyalgia: no clear difference. improvement in sleep (p < .001) Effects of Panax ginseng extract in patients with fibromyalgia: a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trialPubMed 23567596
3. Crossover trial, 2013; 15 people; young male healthy volunteers: improves. Total wake time (TWT) was significantly reduced (P<0.05) and SE was increased (P<0.05), although slow … Effects of red ginseng extract on sleeping behaviors in human volunteersPubMed 23872254
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.
Stress
Mixed or unclear: two readings of the studies disagreed. One reading found evidence too weak to tell for stress, the other an improvement. The question is open.
Possible harm: 1 study read reported a worse result for stress with Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng). One abstract says: "These data suggest that chronic American ginseng supplementation at the given dose can cause an oxidative stress in postmenopausal women" Check the studies below, and ask a doctor or pharmacist if this applies to you.
2 studies counted of 11 read: 2 trials (90 people in the trials).
1. Randomised trial, 2017; 65 people; healthy medical school students: improves. Panax Ginseng led to significant reduction in MDA serum levels Eustress and Malondialdehyde (MDA): Role of Panax Ginseng: Randomized Placebo Controlled StudyPubMed 29062371
2. Randomised trial, 2009; 25 people; postmenopausal women: worsens. The ginseng supplemented group displayed a higher resting plasma glutathione disulfide (GSSG) concentration and lower … American ginseng supplementation induces an oxidative stress in postmenopausal womenPubMed 19828907
Automated reading of the published studies (Decosa evidence engine), run 30 Sep 2026. It reads abstracts, can miss studies, and a repeat run can differ.

Key findings

ErectionsMale Sexual DysfunctionImproves (the measure goes up)
Blood glucoseType 2 DiabetesImproves (the measure goes down)
Blood Lactate (Exercise)General Athletic PerformanceImproves (the measure goes down)

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Studies cited

59 studies from PubMed

Modulation of cognition and mood following administration of single doses of Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and a ginkgo/ginseng combination to healthy young adultsPhysiol Behav · PMID 12020739
Acute, dose-dependent cognitive effects of Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng and their combination in healthy young volunteers: differential interactions with cognitive demandHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 12404705
No ergogenic effect of ginseng ingestionInt J Sport Nutr · PMID 8876346
No ergogenic effects of ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) during graded maximal aerobic exerciseJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 9336557
Ginseng supplementation does not enhance healthy young adults' peak aerobic exercise performanceJ Am Coll Nutr · PMID 9791844
Effects of ginseng supplementation on supramaximal exercise performance and short-term recoveryJ Strength Cond Res · PMID 11710653
Panax ginseng Supplementation Increases Muscle Recruitment, Attenuates Perceived Effort, and Accelerates Muscle Force Recovery After an Eccentric-Based Exercise in AthletesJ Strength Cond Res · PMID 32379240
Effects of ginseng on secretory IgA, performance, and recovery from interval exerciseMed Sci Sports Exerc · PMID 12673155
Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasksJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 16401645
Improvement of cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease patients by long term treatment with korean red ginsengJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717092
Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cognitive and Motor Function: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled TrialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 23717119
Panax ginseng (G115) improves aspects of working memory performance and subjective ratings of calmness in healthy young adultsHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 20737519
Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activityJ Psychopharmacol · PMID 15982990
Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer diseaseAlzheimer Dis Assoc Disord · PMID 18580589
Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel-based morphometry studyHum Psychopharmacol · PMID 33217050
Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba Effects on Cognition as Modulated by Cardiovascular Reactivity: A Randomised TrialPLoS One · PMID 26938637
A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study on the effect of a standardized ginseng extract on psychomotor performance in healthy volunteersJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 3528672
An open-label trial of Korean red ginseng as an adjuvant treatment for cognitive impairment in patients with Alzheimer's diseaseEur J Neurol · PMID 18684311
Improved cognitive performance in human volunteers following administration of guarana (Paullinia cupana) extract: comparison and interaction with Panax ginsengPharmacol Biochem Behav · PMID 15582012
Efficacy of Panax ginseng Meyer Herbal Preparation HRG80 in Preventing and Mitigating Stress-Induced Failure of Cognitive Functions in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover TrialPharmaceuticals · PMID 32235339
Anti-inflammatory and antifatigue effect of Korean Red Ginseng in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver diseaseJ Ginseng Res · PMID 27616896
Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Cardiovascular Risks in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled StudyKorean J Fam Med · PMID 22916320
A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary reportJ Urol · PMID 12394711
Clinical efficacy of Korean red ginseng for erectile dysfunctionInt J Impot Res · PMID 8750052
Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunctionAsian J Androl · PMID 16855773
Effects of Panax ginseng on hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Ginseng Res · PMID 35509826
Panax ginseng has no effect on indices of glucose regulation following acute or chronic ingestion in healthy volunteersBr J Nutr · PMID 19017419
Antioxidant effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer in healthy subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trialFood Chem Toxicol · PMID 21699953
Beneficial effects of Korean red ginseng on lymphocyte DNA damage, antioxidant enzyme activity, and LDL oxidation in healthy participants: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trialNutr J · PMID 22805313
Effects of Panax ginseng supplementation on muscle damage and inflammation after uphill treadmill running in humansAm J Chin Med · PMID 21598413
Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) root fractions: differential effects on postprandial glycemia in healthy individualsJ Ethnopharmacol · PMID 21619921
Ginseng and ginsenoside Re do not improve β-cell function or insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetesDiabetes Care · PMID 21411505
Ginseng therapy in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patientsDiabetes Care · PMID 8721940
Red ginseng for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Chin J Integr Med · PMID 22139546
Effects of red ginseng supplementation on menopausal symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women: a double-blind randomized controlled trialMenopause · PMID 22027944
Effects of a standardized ginseng extract on quality of life and physiological parameters in symptomatic postmenopausal women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Swedish Alternative Medicine GroupInt J Clin Pharmacol Res · PMID 10761538
Effects of Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal in menopausal women: placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover clinical studyJ Sex Med · PMID 20141583
Ginseng treatment improves psychomotor performance at rest and during graded exercise in young athletesInt J Sport Nutr · PMID 10660868
Six weeks of Jilin ginseng root supplementation attenuates drop jump-related muscle injury markers in healthy female college studentsFood Funct · PMID 33507202
Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertensionJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 21235416
Heat-processed ginseng enhances the cognitive function in patients with moderately severe Alzheimer's diseaseNutr Neurosci · PMID 22780999
Preventive effect of ginseng intake against various human cancers: a case-control study on 1987 pairsCancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev · PMID 7655337
Non-organ-specific preventive effect of long-term administration of Korean red ginseng extract on incidence of human cancersJ Med Food · PMID 20521975
Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunctionAsian J Androl · PMID 19234482
Effects of acute supplementation of Panax ginseng on endurance running in a hot & humid environmentIndian J Med Res · PMID 21321426
Effects of Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer saponins on male fertilityPanminerva Med · PMID 9063034
Effects of Korean red ginseng extract on behavior in children with symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trialJ Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol · PMID 25369174
Effects of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mayer) and its isolated ginsenosides and polysaccharides on arterial stiffness in healthy individualsAm J Hypertens · PMID 20134405
Red ginseng extract improves coronary flow reserve and increases absolute numbers of various circulating angiogenic cells in patients with first ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarctionPhytother Res · PMID 20641058
Efficacy and safety of the standardised Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold correctedDrugs Exp Clin Res · PMID 8879982
Efficacy of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) for middle-aged and moderate level of chronic fatigue patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trialComplement Ther Med · PMID 31987248
HT1001, a proprietary North American ginseng extract, improves working memory in schizophrenia: a double-blind, placebo-controlled studyPhytother Res · PMID 22213250
Ginseng does not enhance psychological well-being in healthy, young adults: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trialJ Am Diet Assoc · PMID 11424544
Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of lifeAnn Pharmacother · PMID 11895046
Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyInt J Neurosci · PMID 23301896
Fermented ginseng improves the first-night effect in humansSleep · PMID 19294962
Cognition enhancing effect of panax ginseng in Korean volunteers with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trialTransl Clin Pharmacol · PMID 32055589
Anti-Fatigue Effects of Enzyme-Modified Ginseng Extract: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled TrialJ Altern Complement Med · PMID 27754709
Safety and antifatigue effect of Korean Red Ginseng: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trialJ Ginseng Res · PMID 31695571

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