Ginseng Supplements Review

Find the Best Ginseng Supplement. Key "Ginsenosides" Found to Range 10-Fold Across Products.

Medically reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Last Updated : 08/28/2021 | Initially Posted: 06/12/2021

Ginseng Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab

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Table of Contents

Summary

· What is ginseng and what does it do? There two main types of ginseng root: Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng, often sold as Panax, Chinese or Korean ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius, which includes what is sold as Wisconsin ginseng). Note that "Siberian" or "Russian" ginseng is not true ginseng and does not contain the same active compounds as real ginseng. Ginseng is normally off-white in color but, when steamed and dried, it is "red" -- both forms are sold. (See What It Is for more details.)

As discussed in detail in the What It Does section, ginseng is widely used with the belief that it will improve overall energy and vitality, although there is little clinical evidence of this. Korean red ginseng is particularly popular for enhancing sexual function. Some studies in men with erectile dysfunction have shown some benefit, and some studies in women have shown improvement in sexual arousal.

There is preliminary evidence that ginseng extract can help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, although it did not improve levels in a study of people with metabolic syndrome. A study found minor benefit with ginseng extract in people with liver dysfunction.

Despite some positive results, the role of ginseng in preventing the common cold or flu remains uncertain and, overall, there is not enough evidence to support using it for such purposes. In children with ADHD, a ginseng extract appeared to reduce hyperactivity but did not improve inattention. A study found ginseng to improve symptoms in women with cold hypersensitivity (which can include Raynaud's).

· What did ConsumerLab find when testing ginseng supplements? Our tests showed a very wide range in the amount of ginsenosides in ginseng supplements. Per serving, ginsenosides ranged from as little as 7.4 mg to as much as 82.9 mg. One product was Not Approved, as it contained only 77.4% of the minimum amount of ginsenosides we expected from its claimed amount and form of ginseng. (For details, see What CL Found.)

· Which is the best ginseng? Among the products that passed testing, ConsumerLab.com chose three Top Picks — one Asian ginseng supplements and two American ginseng supplements. These provide high quality ginseng at relatively good value.

· How much ginseng should I take? Dosage depends largely on the form of ginseng used: Generally about 1,000 mg (1 gram) of root powder is taken twice daily, while only about 100 mg of root extract is taken twice daily, but dosage can vary significantly based on type of ginseng and reason for use. Effects may take days or weeks. (See What to Consider When Using).

· Is ginseng safe and does it cause side effects? Ginseng is generally thought to be safe when taken in appropriate suggested amounts, although its safety has not been established during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Due to its potential effect on blood sugar levels, people with diabetes should be cautious about using ginseng. Ginseng may also interact with a range of drugs including warfarin and statins. It may also stimulate breast cancer cells, so should not be used in people with breast cancer. For details, see Concerns and Cautions).

What It Is:

Ginseng is the dried root of one of several species of the Araliaceae family of herbs. The most commonly used type is Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A., Meyer), often sold as Panax, Chinese, or Korean ginseng.

Closely related to Asian ginseng is American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.), which interestingly, is more widely used in China than in America and is sometimes preferred for its milder effects. A large amount of American ginseng is grown in Wisconsin and sold as Wisconsin ginseng.

So-called "Siberian" or "Russian" ginseng, more properly Eleutherococcus senticosus (eleuthero) Rupr. ex Maxim, is only distantly related to true ginseng, and does not contain the same active compounds. For this reason, Eleutherococcus products were not included in this Review. Eleuthero is also considered weaker in action and is a less expensive ingredient.

When ginseng root is left mostly unprocessed it is called "white ginseng." "Red ginseng" refers to Asian ginseng root when it has been steamed and dried. According to traditional Chinese medicine, these various forms of ginseng have different properties. However, the current scientific evidence is not advanced enough to determine these differences in an objective way.

Ginseng-containing foods and dietary supplements are typically made from a powder or extract of "white" or "red" ginseng root.

Plant chemicals called ginsenosides are hypothesized to play a role in ginseng's biological activity. They are considered "marker" compounds for ginseng — that is, their presence (or absence) and their chemical profiles can indicate the type and quality of ginseng in a product. It is strongly suspected that different ginsenosides have different effects, but not enough is known to make definitive statements about which ginsenosides are most important for a specific proposed use of ginseng.

What It Does:

Ginseng is widely used in the United States with the belief that it will improve overall energy and vitality, particularly during times of fatigue or stress. While there is little meaningful scientific evidence to support an energy boosting effect in the general population, a placebo-controlled study found ginseng to reduce self-reported cancer-related fatigue -- which can occur even after cancer is successfully treated. In the study, people taking 2,000 mg of American ginseng root powder daily for 8 weeks showed a statistically significant improvement in energy (of about 10 points on a 100-point self-reported fatigue scale) compared to those taking placebo, with no difference in side effects. Fatigue was most improved among those actively being treated for cancer, as opposed to those treated in the past -- with significant improvements occurring earlier in this subgroup (within just 4 weeks of ginseng use) (Barton, JNCI 2013). The researchers point out that good treatments for cancer-related fatigue are not available. Although preliminary (non-human) data suggests that ginseng does not interfere with the activity of many common chemotherapeutic agents (tamoxifen, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, paclitaxel, 5-fluorouracil, and methotrexate), these interactions have not been well studied. Consequently, the researchers suggest that it would be reasonable for a cancer survivor to try American ginseng for related fatigue. The ginseng studied was from Wisconsin, contained 3% ginsenosides, and was taken daily as two 500-mg capsules at breakfast and again at noon. The study was preceded by a smaller pilot study which also showed benefit, although the product at that time contained 5% ginsenosides.

There is some preliminary evidence that American ginseng may reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. A study in Canada among 24 older men and women with type 2 diabetes (most of whom were taking antidiabetes medication) found that 1 gram of American ginseng extract (9.67% ginsenosides) taken three times daily (40 minutes before each meal) for two months modestly reduced fasting blood glucose (- 0.71 mmol/L), HbA1c (- 0.29%), and systolic blood pressure (- 5.6 mmHg) compared to placebo. The total daily dose of extract (CNT 2000, Chai-Na-Ta Corp., Langley, BC) was 3 grams, which provided 290 mg of ginsenosides (Vuksan, Eur J Nutr 2018).

There is also evidence that a hydrolyzed Panax ginseng extract can improve fasting and post-prandial (after-eating) glucose levels, based on a study in which adults with impaired fasting glucose were given 480 mg of hydrolyzed Panax ginseng extract (1.7% ginsenosides) after breakfast and again after dinner (providing a total daily dose of about 16 mg ginsenosides and 6 mg of compound K). After 8 weeks, those taking the extract had significantly lower plasma glucose levels after fasting and after ingesting a glucose drink compared to those taking a placebo. There was no significant change in insulin secretion and no adverse effects were reported (Park, J Ginseng Res 2014). Note: The hydrolyzed ginseng used in this study, which was conducted in South Korea, does not appear to be available in the U.S. Be aware, however, that research has also shown that ordinary Panax ginseng (non-hydrolyzed) might raise blood sugar levels and be harmful in diabetes (See Concerns and Cautions).

A study in Korea among men with metabolic syndrome who took 3 grams of red ginseng high in ginsenosides (about 17%) daily for one month found there was no significant improvement in most measures of health (including systolic blood pressure, BMI, fasting blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol levels), compared to placebo. However, there were small increases in blood levels of total testosterone (from 396 to 418 ng/mL) and IGF-1 (from 145 to 167 ng/mL) -- hormones which can be low in men with metabolic syndrome — as well as a small decrease (5 mmHg) in diastolic blood pressure (Jung, Complement Ther Med 2016).

A study among 51 men and women in South Korea with liver dysfunction (with modestly elevated levels of the liver enzyme alanine transaminase (ALT) -- a marker of liver damage, but not due to viral hepatitis, alcohol intake, cirrhosis, or medications) found that 2.4 grams of Panax ginseng extract powder (GS-KG9, Daedong Korea Ginseng Co., Ltd — containing about 29 mg of ginsenosides (Rg1 and Rb1)) taken daily for three months significantly reduced ALT levels compared to placebo (an average decrease in ALT of 10. 15 IU/L among those who took ginseng vs. an increase of 4.96 IU/L in the placebo group). Those who took ginseng also had decreases in average levels of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) — another marker of liver damage — although this decrease was not significant compared to placebo. Changes in AST, ALP, and total bilirubin levels were not statistically different between the two groups. It should be noted that one of the authors of the study works for the company that makes the extract (Shen, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2020).

Despite some positive results, the role of ginseng in preventing the common cold or flu remains uncertain and, overall, there is not enough evidence to support using it for such purposes. Studies using an American ginseng proprietary extract (Cold-FX) suggested that it might help prevent the common cold or flu and reduce their duration and severity (McElhaney, J Altern Complement Med 2006; Nguyen, Can Fam Physician 2007). However, this was not a standard ginseng extract as it contained a very high concentration of polysaccharides, and there has been criticism of the design of these studies (most of which were industry-funded) and how results were reported (Kolber, ACFP's Tools for Practice 2012).

Studies evaluating Asian ginseng for colds and flu suggest that it may help boost the immune system, but the evidence is inconsistent as to whether or not it reduces the number of cold or flu cases. A preliminary study in Italy among 227 people found that taking 100 mg of a proprietary Panax ginseng extract (Ginsana G115) once daily for 4 weeks before and 8 weeks after getting a flu shot stimulated the immune system and reduced the number of cold and flu cases by about 65% compared to placebo (Scaglione, Drugs Exp Clin Res 1996). Another study in Korea among 99 healthy adults (average age 50) found that taking 1 gram of Korean red ginseng twice daily for 8 weeks increased T cells, B cells and white blood cells — all of which are immune cells that help protect the body from infections — compared to placebo. However, there was no reduction in the number of colds that occurred (Hyun, J Ginseng Res 2020).

A concentrated extract of Korean Red ginseng showed promise in improving symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) without adverse effects in children ages 6 to 15. In the 8-week, placebo-controlled study, children with ADHD were given 1 gram of extract (consumed as a liquid from a pouch) twice a day (Ko, J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2014). Hyperactivity scores (means) decreased significantly more among those given ginseng (from 3.09 to 1.76) than placebo (3.81 to 3.03). Inattention scores also decreased significantly in the ginseng group (from 6.39 to 4.03), although not significantly more than in the placebo group (5.70 to 4.57). The ginseng group also had a greater decrease in brain wave activity (TBR) indicative ADHD, but not in levels of stress hormones (cortisol and DHEA). Details were not reported about the chemical composition of extract, which was provided by the Korea Ginseng Corporation which funded the study, but without intervention, and which appears to sell a similar liquid pouch product but in a larger dose (3 grams per pouch). A pilot study using American ginseng combined with Gingko biloba also indicated improvement in symptoms of ADHD (Lyon, J Psychiatry Neurosci 2001).

Two studies enrolling a total of 135 men support the use of Panax ginseng for enhancing sexual function in men. One of these studies was a three-month double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that evaluated the effects of Korean red ginseng (steamed and heat-dried Panax ginseng) in 90 men with erectile dysfunction. Participants received either red ginseng at a dose of 1,800 mg daily, the drug trazodone (an antidepressant with marginal effects on erectile dysfunction) or placebo. The results indicated that red ginseng worked better than both the placebo and trazodone treatments. Ginseng had no significant effect on testosterone levels. (Choi, Int J Impot Res 1995).

Other studies have looked at the role of even higher doses of red ginseng in sexual function. One study in Brazil examined the effects of 3,000 mg of red Korean ginseng versus placebo in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. Sixty-six percent of the men using ginseng saw an improvement in their erections while there was no significant improvement among men receiving placebo (de Andrade, Asian J. Anrdol. 2007).

Korean red ginseng may also improve some, but not all, measures of sexual function in women. A double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study in Korea comparing the effects of 3,000 mg of red ginseng to placebo in 28 women (average age 51 years old) found a significant improvement in arousal. No severe side effects were reported although two women experienced vaginal bleeding while taking the ginseng product (Oh, J Sex Med 2010). Another double-blind, placebo-controlled study in Iran among 32 women (average age 37) complaining of sexual dysfunction found that those given one tablet of the product X-Ade (Golden Life) providing 67 mg of Korean ginseng, 40 mg of eleuthero, and 100 IU of vitamin E daily after lunch for 6 weeks reported a two-fold greater improvement in both "desire" and "satisfaction" compared to those given placebo. However, overall sexual function (which was the primary focus of the study), as well as arousal, lubrication, orgasm and pain were not improved for those who were supplemented compared to the placebo group, although both groups showed significant improvement in these measures compared to baseline. No serious side effects were reported (Ghamari, Women Health 2020).

A study among 80 women in Korea with cold hypersensitivity in the hands and feet (CHHF — which can include Raynaud's phenomenon) found those who took six capsules of red Korean ginseng twice daily (a total daily dose of 6,000 mg of ginseng containing 3.4% ginsenosides) for two months had significantly higher skin temperature in hands and feet, less discomfort, and improved response to cold exposure compared to those who took a placebo (Park, J Ethnopharmacol 2014).

Taking American ginseng before cognitive testing does not appear to improve most measures of cognitive function in younger adults. A study among 61 healthy university students in England found that those who took 200 mg of American ginseng standardized to 10% to 12% ginsenosides prior to cognitive testing (which was conducted over three sessions at 2, 4, and 6 hours after supplementation) did not show improvements during testing in reaction time, number of correct responses, executive functioning, or memory compared to placebo. Those taking the placebo did, however, show lower accuracy during the third testing session compared to the first session, while those taking ginseng (Cereboost by Naturex SA — which funded the study) did not. Results were similar when the product was taken daily for two weeks prior to testing (Bell, Eur J Nutr 2021).

Other uses of various forms of ginseng with weak or contradictory supporting evidence include enhancing general wellbeing (Panax ginseng) and stimulating the immune system (Panax ginseng).

Quality Concerns and Tests Performed:

Quality and quantity of ginseng: Ginseng is expected to contain specific minimum amounts of ginsenosides. Levels of these are sometimes advertised on product packaging. Previous testing by ConsumerLab.com has shown that not all products meet the standards or their claims — either because too little ginseng is used or it is of poor quality. In its previous tests of ginseng in 2014, ConsumerLab.com found that two products did not contain their minimum expected amounts of ginsenosides. A reason why some products have been found to contain lower amounts of ginsenosides than listed on their labels is that the ginseng used may have been purchased based on ginsenosides levels determined using a "UV method" of analysis, which is a non-specific measure and can, therefore, overstate the actual amount of ginsenosides in a product. The HPLC method employed by ConsumerLab.com is a more specific measure of the ginsenoside content. Be aware that "ginseng teas" may contain little ginseng: It was reported that a test of AriZona Green Tea with Ginseng and Honey showed "no detectable ginsenosides," (hence, little or no ginseng) (United States District Court of Eastern NY, 2019).

Pesticides and heavy metals: ConsumerLab.com has found pesticide and heavy-metal contamination in the past in ginseng products in the U.S. and Japan. The pesticides pentachloronitrobenzene (known as quintozene or PCNB) and lindane are not allowed for use on U.S. food crops because they are possible carcinogens that may also be toxic to the liver and kidneys and may impair oxygen transport in the blood. Another potentially carcinogenic pesticide, hexachlorobenzene, has been banned from most food-crop use throughout the world.

Ability to Break Apart (Disintegrate): Supplements sold as tablets and caplets (except enteric-coated, chewable and time-release formulas) must be able to break apart properly in the stomach in order to release their ingredients. From time to time, ConsumerLab.com has found supplements that do not fully break apart.

Because no government agency is responsible for routinely testing ginseng supplements for their contents or quality, ConsumerLab.com independently evaluated several leading ginseng products to determine whether they contained the type and amount of ginseng stated on their labels and were free of contamination with specific pesticides and heavy metals (lead, cadmium, and arsenic). Any tablets or caplets were also tested to be sure that they could disintegrate ("break apart") properly.

What CL Found:

Among the eight ginseng supplements that ConsumerLab.com selected for quality testing, seven passed the review, as did three products tested through CL's Quality Certification Program.

The one product that did not pass, Nature's Way Asian Ginseng, was Not Approved because it was found to provide only 77% of the minimum amount of ginsenosides we expected from its claimed 1,120 mg of Asian ginseng root extract. We expect at least 3% of the listed weight of such an extract to be ginsenosides, which, for this product would be 33.6 mg. Our tests showed no more than 26 mg -- a finding that was confirmed in a second laboratory unaware of the earlier findings or the identity of the product. Although this is a larger amount of ginsenosides than in some other extracts (see the graph below), those products claimed smaller amounts of extract per serving.

Any product made from whole root powder was tested for pesticides and heavy metals, and none of these products failed those tests. See Testing Methods and Passing Score for more information about the testing and criteria.

Amounts of Ginsenosides
As discussed earlier, ginsenosides are believed to be the active compounds in ginseng. The graph below shows the amounts of ginsenosides that we found per listed serving of each product.

Ginsenosides Found in Ginseng Supplements Per Serving

The greatest amounts were in Prince of Peace American Ginseng (a loose root powder — 82.9 mg per 1.8 gram, i.e., about 1 teaspoon, serving), BulkSupplements.com Ginseng Root Extract (a loose extract of Asian ginseng root -- 75 mg of ginsenosides per 1 gram serving, i.e., 1/3 teaspoon), and Imperial Elixir American Ginseng (57 mg per 2 capsules). Products with the next highest amounts of ginsenosides per serving were Nature's Way Asian Ginseng (26 mg per 2 capsules), Solgar Korean Ginseng (25.7 mg per capsule), and Ginx Nutrition Red Ginseng (22.5 mg per 3 gummies).

Serving sizes differed across products, so, on a gram-for-gram basis, BulkSupplements actually provides 63% more ginsenosides than Prince of Peace, which is not surprising because it is an extract, while Prince of Peace is a root powder. The higher concentration of ginsenosides in BulkSupplements helps explain its strong, bitter flavor, while Prince of Peace had a milder flavor. It is also important to note that a single capsule of Solgar provides nearly same amount of ginsenosides as two capsules of Nature's Way.

The rest of the products provided lower, but still acceptable, amounts of ginsenosides, ranging from 7.4 mg to 12 mg per serving.

Cost of ginsenosides
As shown below, the cost to obtain 10 mg of ginsenosides from each product ranged from as little as 3 cents from BulkSupplements' powder to 51 cents from Gaia Herbs' liquid. The least expensive sources tended to be the powders and pills with the highest amounts of ginsenosides per serving, while the most expensive sources were special formulations, namely, an alcoholic extract from Gaia and gummies from Ginx.

Cost Per 10 mg Ginsenosides in Ginseng Supplements

Top Picks:
Among the ginseng supplements that were Approved for quality through our testing, the following are our Top Picks by category:

Asian ginseng:
Our Top Pick among Asian ginseng products is Solgar Korean Ginseng Root Extract, which contains extract as well as some root powder. It provided a bit more than its claimed 20 mg of ginsenosides per vegetable capsule, delivering 25.7 mg, which is a greater amount of ginsenosides than in any other capsule tested. The capsules are a bit expensive (32 cents each), but are actually one of the least expensive in terms of the cost to get ginsenosides.

Granted, Solgar is a more expensive source of ginseng and ginsenosides than BulkSupplements' powder, but we found the bitter taste of that powder to be off-putting. We have also been concerned recently by the quality of some of other BulkSupplements products that we have tested, such as its ginger root extract, which had an unusual color, aroma, and taste -- suggestive of excessive exposure to heat.

American ginseng:
We have two Top Picks among American ginseng products. If you prefer capsules, our Top Pick is Imperial Elixir American Ginseng. Each capsule delivered 28.5 mg of ginsenosides (57 mg per 2-capsule suggested serving, costing 46 cents). If you prefer a powder, we like Prince of Peace Pure American Ginseng Powder — although it is slightly more expensive in terms of getting ginsenosides. It has a mild, ginseng flavor. It suggests a serving of 1.8 grams of the powder (about one level teaspoon) to be added to 8 ounces of boiling water to make a ginseng drink.

Test Results by Product:

Listed below are the test results for 11 supplements. Products are grouped by type of ginseng and listed alphabetically within each group. ConsumerLab.com selected eight of these products. Three others (each indicated with a CL flask) that were tested at the request of their manufacturers/distributors through CL's Quality Certification Program are included for having passed testing.

Shown in the second column for each product is the claimed type and amount of the ginseng, serving size recommended on the label, and expected ginsenosides per serving (based on claims or minimum expected amounts). In addition, you'll see the amount of ginsenosides that we found in testing. Results of applicable tests for pesticides and heavy metals are shown in the third column, along with pill size and suggested daily serving instructions. Price comparisons are in the fourth column, notable features (including any taste impressions) are in the fifth column, and the full listing of ingredients is in the last column. Products listed as "Approved" met their label claims and ConsumerLab.com's additional quality criteria (see Passing Score).

Results of ConsumerLab.com Testing of Ginseng Supplements

(Click arrows or swipe left or right to see all columns)

Approval Statusⓘ

Product Name

Claimed, Minimum Expectedⓘ and Found Amountsⓘ

Heavy Metalsⓘ

Pesticidesⓘ

Pill Sizeⓘ

Suggested Serving on Label

Cost for Suggested Serving

[Cost Per 10 mg Ginsenosides Found]

Price Paid

Notable Features

Full List of Ingredients Per Serving

Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng):

APPROVED

Body Gold® Ginsana® Energy

Dist. by Pep Products, Inc.

$ Price Check

1 VegCap

200 mg [Asian] ginseng root extract (Ginsana® Ginseng G2G)

8 mg ginsenosides

Found:
Ginsenosides: 9.7 mg ✔

Heavy Metals: Pass

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Large VegCap

Take 1 VegCap daily with a meal or glass of water.

$0.37/VegCap

[$0.38]

$10.99/30 VegCaps

Proprietary energy blend 200 mg per VegCap.

No Caffeine, Added Sugar or Jarring Artificial Stimulants.

1 VegCap
Ginsana® Ginseng G2G (Panax ginseng) (root extract) [supplying 4% ginsenosides] 200 mg, Proprietary Energy Blend: [Schizandra (Schizandra chinensis) (berry), Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) (root), Decaffeinated Green Tea (Camelia sinensis) (leaf extract)] 200 mg.

Other Ingredients: Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate, Silica, Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin (vegetarian capsule).

APPROVED

Bulk-
Supplements.com® Ginseng Root Extract

Dist. by BulkSupplements.com

1/3 tsp [1,000 mg]

1,000 mg [Asian] ginseng root extract

≥70 mg ginsenosides

Found:
Ginsenosides: 75 mg ✔

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Powder in pouch

Take 1,000 mg (about 1/3 tsp) once to twice daily, or as directed by a physician.

$0.19 per 1/3 tsp

[$0.03]

$18.96/3.5 oz [100 g] pouch (approx. 100 servings)

Taste: Strong, bitter ginseng flavor

Free of: Added Sugar, Soy, Dairy, Yeast, Gluten, Additives.

1/3 tsp
Ginseng Root Extract (Panax ginseng) (Root) [Standardized to contain ≥7% Ginsenosides] 1,000 mg.

Other Ingredients: None.

APPROVED

Ginx Nutrition Red Ginseng Immunity Gummy

Dist. by Nutrex America Inc.

3 gummies

375 mg red [Asian] ginseng extract

Found:
Ginsenosides: 22.5 mg (Expected minimum: 11.3 mg ✔)

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Very large gumdrop shaped gummy

Take three (3) gummies daily.

$1.00/3 gummies

[$0.44]

$29.99/90 gummies

Vitamin C 500 mg, zinc 2.55 mg, sodium 30 mg per 3 gummies

Taste: Mildly sweet, lemony ginseng flavor

Vegan. Non GMO. Gluten Free. Does Not Contain: wheat, dairy, egg, shell fish, artificial flavors or colors. Processed in a facility with products that contain soy.

3 gummies
Calories 40, Total Carbohydrate 10 g, Total Sugars [Includes 6 g Added Sugars] 6 g, Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) 500 mg, Zinc 2.55 mg, Sodium 30 mg, Red Ginseng Extract (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) 375 mg.

Other Ingredients: Glucose Syrup, Sugar, Water, Pectin, Natural Flavor, Citric Acid, Trisodium Citrate, Start (Potato, Corn), Soy Lecithin, Stevia, Vegetable Oil.

NOT APPROVED

Nature's Way® Asian Ginseng

Dist. by Nature's Way Brands, LLC

2 vegan capsules

1,120 mg Asian ginseng root extract

Found:
Ginsenosides: 26 mg (77.4% of expected minimum of 33.6 mg)

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Large vegan capsule

Take 2 capsules daily, preferably with food.

$0.27/2 vegan capsules

[$0.10]

$13.49/100 vegan capsules

Non GMO Project Verified seal. Vegan. Gluten Free. No sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, corn, soy, dairy products, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

2 vegan capsules
Total Carbohydrate 1 g, Asian Ginseng Root Extract 1.12 g.

Other Ingredients: Plant-derived capsule (hypromellose), magnesium stearate.

APPROVED

Puritan's Pride® Korean Ginseng Extract

Mfd. by Puritan's Pride, Inc.

1 capsule

100 mg Korean ginseng root extract

7 mg ginsenosides

Found:
Ginsenosides: 7.4 mg ✔

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Large capsule

For adults, take one (1) capsule two times daily, preferably with meals.

$0.20/capsule

[$0.27]

$23.98/2 bottles of 60 capsules (120 capsules total)

No Artificial Color, Flavor or Sweetener, No Preservatives, No Milk, No Lactose, No Soy, No Gluten, No Wheat, No Yeast, No Fish. Sodium Free.

1 capsule
Korean Ginseng Extract (Panax ginseng) (root) (standardized to contain 7% ginsenosides, 7 mg) 100 mg.

Other Ingredients: Maltodextrin, Gelatin, Vegetable Cellulose. Contains <2% of: Silica, Vegetable Magnesium Stearate.

APPROVED

Rexall® Korean Ginseng 100 mg

Mfd. by Rexall

1 capsule

100 mg Korean ginseng root extract

7 mg ginsenosides

Found:
Ginsenosides: 7.5 mg ✔

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Large capsule

For Adults, Take One (1) Capsule Two Daily, Preferably With Meals.

$0.08/capsule

[$0.11]

$6.00/75 capsules

No Gluten, No Yeast, No Wheat, No Milk or Milk Derivatives, No Lactose, No Sugar, No Preservatives, No Soy, No Artificial Color, No Artificial Flavor, No Sodium.

APPROVED

Top Pick

among Asian ginseng products

Solgar® Korean Ginseng Root Extract

Mfd. by Solgar, Inc.

$ Price Check

1 vegetable capsule

250 mg Korean ginseng root extract

200 Korean ginseng root powder

20 mg ginsenosides (from Korean root extract)

Found:
Ginsenosides: 25.7 mg (Expected minimum: 23 mg, including 3 mg from Korean root powder ✔)

Heavy Metals: Pass

Pesticides: Pass

Large vegetable capsule

As an herbal dietary supplement for adults, take one (1) vegetable capsule up to three (3) times daily, preferably with meals, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

$0.32/vegetable capsule

[$0.12]

$19.12/60 vegetable capsules

Kosher. Non-GMO. Suitable For Vegans. Free Of: Gluten, Wheat, Dairy, Soy, Yeast, Sugar, Sodium, Artificial Flavor, Sweetener, Preservatives and Color.

1 vegetable capsule
Standardized Korean Ginseng Extract (Panax ginseng) (root) (ginsenosides 20 mg [8%]) 250 mg, Korean Ginseng Powder (Panax ginseng) (root) 200 mg.

Other Ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Magnesium Stearate PhytO₂X® Blend (natural beta-carotene, L-ascorbic acid).

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius):

APPROVED

Gaia Herbs® American Ginseng

Dist. by Gaia Herbs, Inc.

30 drops [1 ml] extract

250 mg American ginseng root equivalency

Found:
Ginsenosides: 12 mg (Expected minimum: 5 mg ✔)

Heavy Metals: NAⓘ

Pesticides: NAⓘ

Liquid in glass bottle

Adults take 30 drops of extract in a small amount of water 3 times daily between meals.

$0.61/30 drops

[$0.51]

$18.39/1 fl oz [30 ml] bottle (approx. 30 servings)

Taste: Strong tasted of alcohol with mild ginseng flavor

30 drops
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) root extract 1 mL.

Other Ingredients: Water and alcohol USP (30-40%). 1:4 Herb Strength Ratio. 250 mg/mL Herb Equivalency.

APPROVED

Top Pick

among American ginseng products

Imperial Elixir® American Ginseng

Dist. by Ginco International

$ Price Check

2 capsules

1,000 American ginseng root powder

Found:
Ginsenosides: 57 mg (Expected minimum: 10 mg ✔)

Heavy Metals: Pass

Pesticides: Pass

Large capsule

As addition to diet take 2 capsules per day with water or as a tea.

$0.46/2 capsules

[$0.08]

$22.99/100 capsules

None.

2 capsules
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) root powder 1,000 mg.

Other Ingredients: Gelatin (capsules). May also contain rice powder and magnesium stearate.

APPROVED

Top Pick

among American ginseng products

Prince Of Peace® Pure American Ginseng Powder

Dist. by Prince of Peace Ent., Inc.

1.8 g

1,800 mg top grade American Wisconsin ginseng root powder

Found:
Ginsenosides: 82.9 mg (Expected minimum: 36 mg ✔)

Heavy Metals: Pass

Pesticides: Pass

Powder in glass bottle

To make ginseng tea, put 1.8 g ginseng powder in 8 fl oz boiling water and steep it for 3-5 minutes.

$0.87/1.8 g

[$0.11]

$20.95/1.5 oz [42.5 g] bottle (approx. 24 servings)

Taste: Mild ginseng flavor

1.8 g
Calories 0, Total Fat 0 g, Sodium 0 mg, Total Carb 0 g, Sugar 0 g, Protein 0 g.

Ingredients: 100% Pure Top Grade American Wisconsin Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius).

Combination Products:

APPROVED

PipingRock®.com Super Ginseng Complex

Mfd. by Piping Rock Health Products

2 capsules

200 mg Korean ginseng extract

10 mg American ginseng extract

200 mg Red Chinese ginseng root powder

200 mg Manchurian ginseng root powder

4.5 mg ginsenosides (4 mg from Korean extract and 0.5 mg from American extract)

Found:
Ginsenosides: 9.9 mg (Expected minimum: 10.5 mg, including 3 mg from Chinese root powder and 3 mg from Manchurian root powder ✔)

Heavy Metals: Pass

Pesticides: Pass

Large capsule

For adults, take two (2) quick release capsule one to two times daily, preferably with meals.

$0.22/2 capsules

[$0.22]

$10.99/100 capsules

Royal jelly 100 mg per 2 capsules

No Gluten, Wheat, Yeast, Milk, Lactose, Soy, Artificial Color, Artificial Flavor, Artificial Sweetener, Preservatives. Non-GMO.

2 capsules
Korean Ginseng Extract (Panax ginseng) (root) (standardized to contain 2% ginsenosides) 200 mg, Red Chinese Ginseng (Panax ginseng) (root) 200 mg, Manchurian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) (root) 200 mg, American Ginseng Extract (Panax quinquefolius) (root) (standardized to contain 5% ginsenosides) 10 mg, Royal Jelly (from 33.3 mg of a 3:1 Concentrate) 100 mg.

Other Ingredients: Rice Powder, Gelatin Capsule, Vegetable Magnesium Stearate.

Unless otherwise noted, information about the products listed above is based on the samples purchased by ConsumerLab.com (CL) for this Product Review. Manufacturers may change ingredients and label information at any time, so be sure to check labels carefully when evaluating the products you use or buy. If a product's ingredients differ from what is listed above, it may not necessarily be of the same quality as what was tested.

The information contained in this report is based on the compilation and review of information from product labeling and analytic testing. CL applies what it believes to be the most appropriate testing methods and standards. The information in this report does not reflect the opinion or recommendation of CL, its officers or employees. CL cannot assure the accuracy of information.

ConsumerTips™:

What to Consider When Buying:
Product labels should indicate the type of ginseng, the plant part (root), the amount and form of ginseng (powder or extract), and, ideally, the amount (or concentration) of ginsenosides. This information should also be considered when comparing the cost of products.

For Asian ginseng, a root powder should contain a minimum of 1.5% total ginsenosides — or 15 mg per gram, while an extract should provide a minimum of 3% total ginsenosides — or 30 mg per gram. For American ginseng, a root powder should contain a minimum of 2% total ginsenosides — or 20 mg per gram, while an extract should provide a minimum of 4% total ginsenosides — or 40 mg per gram.

Note, however, that total ginsenoside content is not sufficient to determine efficacy of a ginseng product. For example, certain ginsenosides appear to lower blood sugar while others raise it, so that some ginseng products of identical total ginsenoside content could potentially be harmful rather than helpful in diabetes. Unfortunately, not enough is known at the present time to base an informed recommendation on the specifics of ginsenoside content.

What to Consider When Using:
Generally, recommended daily doses of ginseng are 200 mg of a standardized extract taken as 100 mg twice daily, or 1,000 to 2,000 mg (1 to 2 grams) of root powder per day. These daily doses should provide at least 6 mg of ginsenosides for Asian ginseng extract and at least 8 mg of ginsenosides for American ginseng extract. For the root powders, these doses should provide 15 to 30 mg of ginsenosides for Asian ginseng and 20 to 40 mg of ginsenosides for American ginseng.

Effects reportedly may take a few days or weeks to develop.

It is often suggested to stop using ginseng for a week or two after each two to three weeks of therapy, but there is no underlying scientific or traditional basis for this recommendation.

In one study with diabetics, three grams (3,000 mg) of American ginseng taken up to two hours before a meal helped reduce postprandial (after-eating) glucose levels.

To help prevent repeat respiratory infections, 400 mg of an American ginseng extract was used daily for four months during cold season.

To improve cancer-related fatigue, 2,000 mg of American ginseng root powder (1,000 mg at breakfast and again at noon) has shown benefit within 8 weeks (Barton, JNCI 2013).

To improve symptoms of ADHD in children, 1 gram of a concentrated extract of Korean Red ginseng has been used twice daily (Ko, J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2014).

If you are sensitive to caffeine, be aware that some ginseng products promoted as boosting energy may contain caffeine — either as caffeine or from herbal ingredients such as green tea, guarana, or cola nut. The amount of caffeine is not always disclosed.

Concerns and Cautions:

Ginseng is generally thought to be safe when taken in appropriate amounts. However, if ginseng does in fact help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, this could necessitate a reduction in medication dose. Conversely, as some forms of ginseng may raise blood sugar levels (Vuksan, Nutr Metabl Cardiovasc Dis 2005), this could necessitate an increase in medication (or could, theoretically, cause true diabetes in a person with borderline diabetes). People with diabetes should, therefore, use ginseng only with caution and under medical supervision, or not at all.

Studies conflict on whether ginseng interacts with warfarin (Coumadin). It may be that some ginsenosides affect warfarin while others do not. Since, at present, we lack the necessary knowledge to distinguish between the effects of various ginsenosides, individuals taking warfarin and related drugs should probably avoid use of ginseng.

Case reports have suggested that prolonged use or use of high doses of ginseng can cause over-stimulation, hypertension and menstrual abnormalities, but these reports have not been substantiated in clinical trials, and may result from use of adulterated products.

Contrary to some reports, ginseng does not appear to have estrogenic activity; however, it might stimulate breast cancer cells and for this reason should not be used by people with breast cancer.

There is some evidence that Panax ginseng may inhibit or activate CYP3A4, an enzyme in the liver and intestine that helps to metabolize (break down) many medications (Bilgi, Ann Pharmacother 2010; Malati, J Clin Pharmacol 2012). Until more is known, use with caution if you take a medication that is metabolized by this enzyme (see the CL Answer about CYP3A4 interactions for more about this and a list of some of the medications that may be affected).

Two case reports suggest that use of ginseng along with antidepressants could contribute to the development of manic episodes in people with underlying bipolar disorder.

Research on rat embryos suggests the potential for ginseng to cause birth defects. The safety of ginseng hasn't been well evaluated during pregnancy or breast-feeding; therefore, using ginseng during those times isn't recommended.

Siberian ginseng (which, as discussed earlier is not a true ginseng) may be a problem if taken with certain statin medications. Elevated liver enzymes and liver injury were reported in an 82-year-old man one week after he began taking a supplement containing a combination of Siberian ginseng and silymarin (from milk thistle) in addition to his regular statin medication atorvastatin (Lipitor). Prior to supplementation, he had taken the statin for five years without any abnormal liver findings. Two months after he stopped taking both the supplement and the statin, his symptoms resolved, and his liver enzyme levels returned to normal. Because there is some evidence that Siberian ginseng may inhibit the organic anion-transporting polypeptide B (OATP-B) (Fuchikami, Drug Metab Dispos 2006), a transporter that helps to eliminate atorvastatin from the body, the researchers suggested this may have contributed to liver injury (Laube, Br J Clin Pharmacol 2019).

Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement of any product nor is it meant to substitute for the advice provided by physicians or other healthcare professionals. The information contained herein should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Consumers should inform their healthcare providers of the dietary supplements they take.

Latest Clinical Research Updates for Ginseng

Can Ginseng Boost Cognition?

8/28/2021

Can taking American ginseng improve cognitive function in young people? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of our Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among American ginseng supplements.

Does Ginseng Prevent Colds?

9/17/2020

Ginseng may increase levels of certain immune cells in the body, but does this result in fewer colds? See what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.

Ginseng for Desire?

9/13/2020

Does ginseng improve desire and satisfaction in women? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of Ginseng Supplements Review.

Ginseng for Liver?

8/02/2020

Does taking ginseng lower blood markers of liver disfunction? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for ginseng.

Ginseng Interaction?

4/16/2019

Liver injury was recently reported in a man who began taking a Siberian ginseng supplement in addition to his prescription statin medication. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.