Most popular

Ginseng (Asian / Korean)

Also called: panax ginseng, korean ginseng, red ginseng, renshen

The root of Panax ginseng, one of the best-known herbs in Chinese and Korean traditional medicine; sold as slices, powder, tea and extract.

Why people take it
Energy, fatigue, immunity, memory and blood sugar.
What the evidence says
Some small studies suggest effects on blood sugar and tiredness, but the evidence is not strong enough to say it works for any condition.
Be careful
May lower blood sugar, especially with diabetes medicines, and may interact with warfarin. Can cause sleep problems and headaches. Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and for children.

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Common questions

What is Ginseng?

The root of Panax ginseng, one of the best-known herbs in Chinese and Korean traditional medicine; sold as slices, powder, tea and extract.

Why do people take Ginseng?

Energy, fatigue, immunity, memory and blood sugar.

Does Ginseng work?

Some small studies suggest effects on blood sugar and tiredness, but the evidence is not strong enough to say it works for any condition.

Is Ginseng safe?

May lower blood sugar, especially with diabetes medicines, and may interact with warfarin. Can cause sleep problems and headaches. Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and for children.

Sources and further reading

NCCIH: Asian ginseng

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.