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Published on: January 26, 2024
751
Ginseng and cancer
Ahmet Unlu1, Erdinc Nayir, Onder Kirca
1Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey.
Summary
Ginseng (Panax) shows potential for reducing cancer-related weakness but lacks conclusive evidence for other health claims. Caution is advised due to possible drug interactions, especially for cancer patients consulting oncologists.
Area of Science:
- Herbal Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Background:
- Ginseng (Panax) has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, believed to treat numerous ailments.
- Its purported benefits include sedative, antidepressant, and stimulating effects, with claims for treating diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and erectile dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the widespread health claims of Ginseng.
- To investigate the efficacy and safety of Ginseng, particularly in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and clinical studies on Ginseng's effects.
- Analysis of reported outcomes for various health conditions and potential drug interactions.
Main Results:
- Limited evidence supports Ginseng's efficacy for acute nasopharyngitis, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and erectile dysfunction.
- Ginseng has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating cancer-related and treatment-induced weakness in cancer patients.
Conclusions:
- Current research does not confirm many traditional health claims for Ginseng.
- Ginseng may be beneficial for cancer-related weakness under oncological supervision due to potential drug interactions.
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