What should not be taken with American ginseng

Aug 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

In the past six months, I have constantly felt that my physical condition is not as good as before, and my immunity has also declined. My doctor recommended that I take American ginseng appropriately. I would like to know, what should not be consumed after taking American ginseng?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Panax ginseng is a nourishing herbal medicine; therefore, attention should be paid to its contraindications with other foods or medications to avoid adverse reactions.

1. Not suitable to consume with tea: Tea contains large amounts of tannic acid, which can bind with active ingredients in Panax ginseng to form compounds that are difficult for the body to absorb, thereby reducing the nutritional value of the ginseng. Additionally, tannic acid may chemically react with components in ginseng and produce substances harmful to the human body.

2. Avoid consumption with radish: Radish has a strong detoxifying effect, while the primary benefit of Panax ginseng lies in nourishing and strengthening the body. When consumed together, the detoxifying effect of radish may neutralize the nourishing effects of ginseng, significantly reducing its therapeutic benefits.

3. Not suitable to consume with cold-natured foods: Panax ginseng is warm in nature and functions to replenish vital energy and nourish yin. Cold-natured foods, such as watermelon and bitter melon, have a cooling effect. Consuming them together may interfere with the warming and nourishing effects of ginseng, which is particularly detrimental for individuals with weak spleen and stomach function.