Originally from China and Korea, ginseng, a well-known herb, has been used medicinally for many centuries. The Asian herb is called Panax ginseng.1 Research has found that Panax ginseng contains approximately twenty-eight different types of ginsenosides.1 Each ginsenoside produces varying effects on body systems, such as the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system.2 For example, one ginsenoside suppresses the central nervous system while another ginsenoside causes a stimulating effect.2 Marketing uses of Panax ginseng involve improving general health and well-being as well as 'increase in mental and physical capacities1. Additionally, it has been said to improve mood and boost energy in a tired person.1 Although the claims are compelling, only evidence supports the validity of marketed uses of ginseng. Although ginseng is known to improve well-being and fatigue, there is no concrete evidence that supports the marketed effects of the drug. Since ginseng has been used to increase well-being, evidence is needed to prove whether such advertisements correspond to the effects of the plant. effects on the body. Pharmacists Coleman, Hebert, and Reddy (2003) reflected on the results of a survey of medicinal plant users. 31% of herbal users have taken ginseng.1 Just over half of ginseng users (54%) have taken ginseng to improve their general health and well-being.1 Approximately 18% of ginseng users wanted to improve their mood.1 Thus, the majority of ginseng users (72%) took it to improve their well-being and fatigue. The pharmacists wanted to test ginseng to determine if the herb actually improves users' well-being.1 Their study randomly selected nine clinical trials from a MEDLINE search, including a variety of patient populations.... .. middle of article.. ....cal therapist knows ginseng. Concerns regarding ginseng, such as interactions with other medications, herbs, and supplements, should be raised with the patient by the therapist. Ultimately, I would not recommend ginseng to a patient.References1. Coleman CI, Hebert JH, Reddy P. The effects of Panax ginseng on quality of life. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2003; 28:5-15.2. Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Dangerous and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1999; 56:125-38.3. Cardinal BJ, Engels HJ. Ginseng does not improve the psychological well-being of healthy young adults: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Am Diet Assoc. 2001; 101:655-60.4. Ginseng, Panax. MedlinePlus website. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1000.html. Published August 11, 2011. Accessed February 5, 2012.