What are the side effects of American ginseng?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Although American ginseng is a commonly used tonic herb, some individuals may experience discomfort after consumption. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, exacerbation of cold body constitution, sleep disturbances, allergic reactions, and blood glucose fluctuations. When using American ginseng, it is important to be aware of contraindications and precautions, control the dosage properly, and make appropriate choices based on individual physical conditions.

Although American ginseng is a commonly used tonic herb, some individuals may experience discomfort after consumption. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, worsening of cold body constitution, sleep disturbances, allergic reactions, and blood sugar fluctuations. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: American ginseng is cool in nature and contains a certain amount of saponins. Excessive intake or taking it on an empty stomach can easily irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to symptoms such as nausea, bloating, diarrhea, or mild stomach pain. These effects are particularly noticeable in individuals with weak spleen and stomach function or poor digestion.

2. Worsening of cold body constitution: The cooling nature of American ginseng may impair the body's yang energy. Individuals with a cold constitution may experience aggravated symptoms such as sensitivity to cold, cold hands and feet, loose stools, and pallor. Such individuals should avoid consuming American ginseng.

3. Sleep disturbances: In some individuals, American ginseng may overstimulate the nervous system, resulting in difficulty falling asleep, reduced sleep quality, frequent dreams, and easy awakening. This effect is more pronounced when consumed in large amounts at night.

4. Allergic reactions: A small number of people with allergic tendencies may react to components in American ginseng. Symptoms may include skin itching, rashes, redness, or accompanying throat irritation and chest tightness. Consumption should be stopped immediately if any of these occur.

5. Blood sugar fluctuations: American ginseng has a certain auxiliary effect in regulating blood glucose. However, excessive intake may cause significant blood sugar fluctuations in individuals with unstable glucose control, which could negatively affect disease management. Such individuals should monitor their blood sugar levels and consume American ginseng in moderation.

When using American ginseng, it is important to observe contraindications and precautions, control the dosage, select usage according to individual constitution, and strictly follow medical advice to ensure safety and appropriateness.

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Can Astragalus and American ginseng be steeped together in water for drinking?

In general, Astragalus (Huang Qi) and American ginseng (Xi Yang Shen) can be steeped together in water for drinking, but excessive consumption is not recommended. When purchasing, choose Astragalus with complete slices and firm texture, and American ginseng with a strong ginseng aroma. After washing, steep them in boiling water, cover and let stand for 10 minutes before drinking. They can be re-steeped until the flavor becomes weak. This drink should be avoided by individuals with colds, fever, or internal damp-heat to prevent worsening of symptoms. Do not consume large amounts at one time.

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Can I take American ginseng while taking lorazepam?

It is generally acceptable to consume American ginseng while taking lorazepam, but you should take them at least 1–2 hours apart and limit the amount of ginseng used to avoid potential interactions affecting absorption. It is recommended to space the intake of lorazepam and American ginseng by 1–2 hours and avoid taking them simultaneously. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking lorazepam, and use American ginseng in moderation, such as steeping a small amount in water or adding it to soups. In daily life, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid consuming stimulants such as coffee and strong tea.

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What type of ginseng should be consumed to tonify physical weakness and yin deficiency?

For deficiency of qi and yin, American ginseng or forest-grown ginseng are generally recommended. American ginseng is cool in nature, with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, and is the primary type of ginseng suitable for individuals with yin-deficiency constitution. It not only replenishes qi to improve fatigue and physical weakness, but also nourishes yin, clears heat, promotes body fluid production, and relieves thirst. It does not exacerbate internal heat caused by yin deficiency, making it ideal for those with both yin deficiency and physical weakness, especially individuals experiencing symptoms such as dry mouth and throat. It can be sliced and steeped in water or ground into powder for oral consumption.

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Who should not consume American ginseng?

People who should avoid consuming American ginseng include those with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, individuals suffering from colds due to wind-cold, people with excessive internal damp-heat, children and infants, and those with allergic constitutions. Since American ginseng is cooling in nature, consumption by these groups may worsen existing symptoms or cause discomfort. If adverse reactions such as abdominal pain or rashes occur after accidental ingestion, prompt medical attention is recommended. Due to its cooling property, American ginseng may exacerbate diarrhea in individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold.