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Double-blind study of a multivitamin complex supplemented with ginseng extract
A Caso Marasco1, R Vargas Ruiz, A Salas Villagomez
1Universidad Nacional Autónoma (UNAM), Mexico.
Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research
|January 1, 1996
Summary
This study found that multivitamins with ginseng extract (Pharmaton Capsules) significantly improved quality of life more than multivitamins alone. The ginseng-containing supplement enhanced all assessed quality-of-life aspects in urban dwellers.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Urban living is associated with a decline in quality of life.
- Dietary supplements, including ginseng and multivitamins, are explored for potential quality-of-life improvements.
- Ginseng root extract combined with a multivitamin base shows promise as a dietary supplement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare quality-of-life parameters in individuals taking multivitamins plus ginseng versus multivitamins alone.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a specific ginseng-containing multivitamin formulation (Pharmaton Capsules) against a multivitamin-only formulation.
Main Methods:
- A comparative, randomized, double-blind study involving 625 participants of both sexes.
- Participants received one capsule daily for 12 weeks: Group A (multivitamins, minerals, trace elements, and ginseng extract G115) or Group B (multivitamins, minerals, and trace elements only).
- Quality of life was assessed using a standardized 11-item questionnaire validated by the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
Main Results:
- Both groups showed significant increases in quality-of-life index, but Group A (Pharmaton Capsules) demonstrated a superior increase (11.9 points) compared to Group B (6.4 points).
- Group A exhibited significant improvement across all 11 questionnaire items, while Group B showed no significant improvement in any item.
- Multivitamin-only treatment (Group B) led to significant increases in body weight and diastolic blood pressure; adverse effects were minimal in both groups.
Conclusions:
- Pharmaton Capsules (multivitamins plus ginseng) are more effective than multivitamin capsules alone in enhancing quality of life.
- The findings support the use of ginseng-containing supplements for improving quality of life in populations experiencing high physical and mental stress.
- Ginseng extract G115, when combined with essential vitamins and minerals, offers a significant benefit for overall well-being.