Can people with cold body constitution take American ginseng?

Sep 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

American ginseng is cool in nature, and its main functions are to nourish Qi and yin, clear heat, and promote body fluid production. It is more suitable for individuals with Yin deficiency and excessive internal heat or deficiency of both Qi and Yin, who exhibit heat-related symptoms such as dry mouth and irritability. If one simply has a cold constitution, manifested as cold intolerance, cold hands and feet, and loose stools, consuming American ginseng may exacerbate internal coldness, leading to worsened symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or increased cold sensitivity, which is not conducive to regulating body constitution.

Generally, individuals with cold body constitution should be cautious when consuming American ginseng. Those with simple cold constitution without symptoms of deficiency-heat should not take it. However, when cold body constitution is accompanied by qi deficiency and internal heat, a small amount of American ginseng may be taken. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

American ginseng is cool in nature and mainly functions to nourish qi and yin, clear internal heat, and promote production of body fluids. It is more suitable for individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat or deficiency of both qi and yin who exhibit symptoms such as dry mouth and irritability. If someone simply has cold body constitution, characterized by cold intolerance, cold hands and feet, and loose stools, taking American ginseng may exacerbate internal coldness, possibly leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, or worsened cold intolerance, which is not conducive to improving body constitution.

If individuals with cold body constitution also exhibit symptoms of qi deficiency and internal heat, such as fatigue combined with dry mouth and throat or warm palms, they may take a small amount of American ginseng under professional guidance, harnessing its qi-nourishing effects while simultaneously relieving heat. However, the dosage must be controlled, and it is best to combine it with warming ingredients such as ginger and red dates to moderate its medicinal properties and prevent the cool nature from damaging the body's yang energy.

Individuals with cold body constitution should never take American ginseng casually. If unsure whether it is suitable for you, consult a professional for a proper diagnosis. If any discomfort occurs after consumption, discontinue use immediately to avoid adverse effects caused by incompatibility of the herb with your body condition.

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Which Three Types of People Should Not Consume American Ginseng

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Is American ginseng effective for male sexual function?

In general, American ginseng may have certain effects on male sexual function. Consumption of American ginseng should be done in moderation, as excessive intake may cause discomfort such as internal heat and insomnia. Individuals with a cold body constitution or weak spleen and stomach should consume it cautiously to avoid worsening physical discomfort. If you have underlying medical conditions or are currently taking other medications, consult a healthcare professional before use to avoid potential adverse interactions.

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Why People with Insomnia Should Not Take American Ginseng

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Three Types of People Who Must Absolutely Avoid Consuming American Ginseng

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