Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

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

Ginseng has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in East Asian systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is valued as an adaptogen—an agent believed to help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors, including psychological stress and anxiety. The roots of both Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng) have been used for centuries to promote vitality, reduce fatigue, and support mental health. In TCM, ginseng is thought to “calm the spirit” and is included in formulas for nervousness and related symptoms.

Scientific evidence for ginseng’s efficacy in treating anxiety disorders is limited and mixed. Some preclinical studies suggest that ginsenosides, the active compounds in ginseng, may have anxiolytic effects by modulating neurotransmitters such as GABA and serotonin in animal models. A few small human studies suggest possible benefits on mood and stress, but these are generally low-quality, with small sample sizes and inconsistent results. Systematic reviews typically conclude that there is insufficient robust clinical evidence to recommend ginseng as a primary treatment for anxiety disorders. Thus, while its use is rooted in tradition and there is some biological plausibility, current scientific validation is weak, giving it a moderate evidence rating primarily based on traditional usage.

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