Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng
For the health condition: Alzheimer's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius, has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects, including possible benefits for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The interest in ginseng for AD is rooted in both its traditional use as a cognitive enhancer in East Asian medicine and emerging scientific research. Ginsenosides, the primary active compounds in ginseng, have demonstrated antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties in preclinical models. Animal and cell studies suggest that ginsenosides may reduce β-amyloid accumulation and tau phosphorylation—two pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

However, human clinical evidence remains limited. A few small randomized controlled trials have indicated modest improvements in cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease when standardized ginseng extracts are used as adjunct therapy. For example, a 2008 study (Heo et al., International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry) reported cognitive improvements in AD patients taking Korean red ginseng for 12 weeks, but sample sizes were small and methodological limitations exist. Meta-analyses generally conclude that, while preclinical data are promising, well-designed large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and clarify dosing and safety.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some early clinical data supporting the use of ginseng in Alzheimer’s disease, current evidence is preliminary and does not warrant strong clinical recommendations. Its use is justified more by emerging science than by tradition alone, but the strength of the evidence is low (rated 2/5).

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2-(carbamimidoyl-methyl-amino) ethoxyphosphonic acid
7,14-Hydroxy-Docosapentaenoic Acid
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone
Acacetin
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amentoflavone
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ampelopsin
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anthocyanins
apigenin
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ashwagandha
astaxanthin
astragaloside
avocado
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baicalein
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butyrate triglyceride
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DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
Ecklonia
eicosapentaenoic acid
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epicatechin
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ergothioneine
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flavanols
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ginseng
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