Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Herbal tonic
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Ginseng is a herbal tonic found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Revital H. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: panax ginseng, korean ginseng

What it is used for

Taken for tiredness, low energy and general wellbeing.

How it works

Panax ginseng root is a traditional tonic claimed to boost energy and immunity; evidence for fatigue and blood sugar is limited.

How to take it

Usually 200 to 400 mg of extract daily for up to 3 months, then a break.

Common side effects

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Headache
  • Stomach upset

Get medical help straight away if

  • Palpitations
  • Very high or low blood pressure

Be careful

Can affect blood sugar and interact with warfarin; may cause sleeplessness.

Other medicines and interactions

Can affect warfarin, diabetes medicines (low sugar) and MAOIs; avoid with stimulants.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Ginseng (1)

Revital H

Common questions

What is Ginseng used for?

Taken for tiredness, low energy and general wellbeing.

How does Ginseng work?

Panax ginseng root is a traditional tonic claimed to boost energy and immunity; evidence for fatigue and blood sugar is limited.

How should I take Ginseng?

Usually 200 to 400 mg of extract daily for up to 3 months, then a break.

What are the side effects of Ginseng?

Common: Trouble sleeping, headache, stomach upset. Get help straight away for: Palpitations, very high or low blood pressure.

Does Ginseng interact with other medicines?

Can affect warfarin, diabetes medicines (low sugar) and MAOIs; avoid with stimulants.

Is Ginseng safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Does Ginseng need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Ginseng?

Revital H.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.