By Dr. M. Faisal Hossain, Assistant Director of Research (PharmD) and Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, USA
Overview
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to improve energy, fight fatigue, and support overall well-being. In recent years, researchers have studied whether these claims are supported by science. Here is what new studies say about ginseng’s effects on fatigue, energy, and mental performance.
Main Active Ingredients
The primary active compounds in ginseng are called ginsenosides. These are plant chemicals that have different effects in the body, contributing to ginseng’s overall benefits.
Where It Comes From
Ginseng comes from the root of the Panax ginseng plant.
Traditional Use
Ginseng has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Korean medicine. It was used to increase energy, strengthen the body, reduce stress, and help the mind stay clear and focused.
Key Insights
Reducing Cancer-Related Fatigue
A 2023 review combined data from seven studies on ginseng’s effects in cancer patients experiencing fatigue. Ginseng significantly reduced fatigue and improved physical and emotional well-being. Reference: Luo WT, Huang TW. Cancer Nurs. 2023.
Supporting Cognitive Performance and Mood
A 2025 clinical trial tested an energy shot with ginseng and other ingredients in healthy adults. The energy shot improved mental speed, accuracy, and mood while reducing mental fatigue. Reference: O’Shea OK et al. Front. Nutr. 2025.
Lowering Daily Fatigue in Healthy Adults
In a 2024 study, Korean Red Ginseng taken daily for 3 weeks lowered feelings of fatigue in healthy adults compared to placebo. The supplement was safe and well tolerated. Reference: Lee Y-G et al. J Ginseng Res. 2024.
Improving Energy and Focus with Combination Supplements
A 2024 study found that a supplement combining ginseng, taurine, and vitamins improved energy, mental alertness, memory, and reduced inflammation in healthy men after 12 weeks. Reference: Chhaya G et al. Med Res Arch. 2024.
Enhancing Exercise Performance and Recovery
A 2025 trial showed that wild ginseng extract helped healthy men maintain muscle power, improve reaction time, and reduce stress hormones during intense exercise. Reference: Lee S et al. Int J Transl Med. 2025.
How Does Ginseng Work?
Research suggests ginseng fights fatigue and boosts energy by:
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Supporting energy production in cells
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Reducing oxidative stress and inflammation
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Balancing stress hormones like cortisol
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Enhancing brain function and focus
Is Ginseng Safe?
Ginseng is generally safe for short-term use. Some people may experience mild side effects such as:
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Trouble sleeping
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Digestive upset
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Headache
It can interact with medications like blood thinners and diabetes drugs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain health conditions, should consult a healthcare provider before using ginseng.
Conclusion
Recent studies support ginseng’s role in reducing fatigue, improving mental performance, and aiding recovery, either alone or combined with other nutrients. However, results vary depending on product quality and dosage. More large-scale research is needed to confirm the best uses and long-term safety of ginseng supplements.
Tip: Choose ginseng products from reputable brands and talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Acknowledgment
Blog prepared with assistance from Gemini by Google.
Note
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any supplement or natural product.