Benefits of Ginseng Tea: Uses & Side Effects

Did you know that drinking ginseng tea is really good for you? People in Asia have been sipping on this tea for a long time because it’s like medicine for your body. And now, people  in the United States and Europe are loving it too!

This special tea can do some cool things for your health, like making your body less swollen, helping you lose weight, giving you more energy, and making your brain work better. In this blog, we’re going to look at the science that proves these awesome benefits and talk about how you can make ginseng tea a part of your healthy routine.

What is ginseng tea?

Ginseng tea comes from the ginseng plant’s root. People think it can give you more energy. Lots of people have been sipping on ginseng tea for a long time, but it’s become even more famous lately as herbal teas have become trendy.

Koreans, for example, have been enjoying ginseng tea to feel more energetic. Some of them also like ginseng wine, thinking it makes them more vigorous and lively.

Nowadays, herbal teas are really catching on. With so many choices, it makes sense to think about picking ginseng tea over the others.

Health Benefits of Ginseng Tea:

1. Boosts Energy Levels:

Research on ginseng shows it can really help perk up your energy and fight off tiredness. In one study, they gave different amounts of ginseng or a fake pill to 90 people for a month. The ones who got ginseng felt less tired in both their mind and body compared to those who got the fake pill.

2. Helps with Weight Management:

Ginseng Tea is a great supporter for your immune system, making your body stronger. It also aids in weight loss by boosting your metabolism. For visible results, combine this tea with a healthy diet and some light exercise.

3. Improves Brain Function:

Ginseng is like a brain-boosting friend! It might make your brain work better, improving stuff like memory, behavior, and mood. A study with 30 healthy people found that taking 200 mg of ginseng daily for four weeks improved mental health, social functioning, and mood. But, remember, the good effects might lessen after eight weeks.

4. Supports Immunity:

Ginseng is like a superhero for your immune system. It makes your white blood cells more active, helping your body fight off things like the common cold and other viruses. Taking ginseng every day might help keep your immunity strong.

5. Good for the Heart:

Ginseng is like a buddy for your heart. Some studies say it might lower blood pressure, protect against heart failure, and keep your cholesterol in check. In a review in 2012, the studies said ginseng really protects your heart from damage.

6. Easy to Include in Your Diet:

Ginseng tea is super easy to add to your daily routine. Instead of your regular cup of tea or coffee, you can switch it up with a nice cup of ginseng tea. It’s a simple way to enjoy all the good things ginseng can do for you!

7. Cleans Up Your Blood:

Ginseng tea is like a superhero for your blood – it helps it move around better and gets rid of the gunk. Scientific tests have shown that ginseng tea can lower the yucky stuff in your blood that can stress out your liver. It also makes you pee a bit, which helps clean up your blood even more.

8. Easy on Your Tummy:

Some drinks can be harsh on your stomach, but not ginseng tea. It’s like a gentle breeze for your digestive system, making things go down easily.

9. Keeps ADHD Away:

Giving your kids ginseng tea might help them steer clear of ADHD. Studies say that a mix of American ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba can make things better for kids dealing with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

10. A Shield Against Strokes:

Ginseng is like a shield against strokes, those really bad attacks on your brain. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory magic in ginseng team up to keep strokes from happening

11. Rehydrates the Skin:

Keep your skin healthy and hydrated by using ginseng tea. It’s great for your skin, making it look and feel better. Ginseng tea can improve your skin by hydrating it and making new skin cells. It’s like a natural cleanser that freshens up your skin.

12. Relieves Menstrual Problems:

You can add ginseng tea to your bath, and it will hydrate and refine your skin. It keeps the right amount of fluids in your body and makes your skin more elastic. Plus, it’s excellent for relieving menstrual problems.
Ginseng can help with the discomfort and pain during your periods. American wild ginseng tea is known for its soothing effects. It has nutrients that support estrogenic activity, which can ease stress in vaginal muscles and give relief from menstrual cramps.

13. Relieves Stress and Calms You Down:

Ginseng tea is like a cozy blanket for your nerves. It helps you chill out and deal with stress in a calmer way. Imagine it as a warm hug in a mug!

14. Reduces the Risk Of Cancer:

Another big benefit of ginseng tea is that it might reduce the risk of cancer. Studies show that people who drink ginseng tea are less likely to get cancer.
Scientists say that ginseng has properties that can fight against cancer. The ginsenosides in ginseng tea can stop tumor cells from growing. It can also prevent cancer from spreading and growing too fast. That’s why some doctors even suggest drinking ginseng tea to help prevent cancer.

Types of Ginseng Tea:

Ginseng tea comes in four types: Japanese ginseng tea, Siberian ginseng tea, Korean ginseng tea, and American ginseng tea.

1. Japanese Ginseng Tea: Also known as Panax japonicam, this one is cheaper and you can find it in small amounts in herbal drinks in Japan.
2. Siberian Ginseng Tea: It’s not exactly like traditional ginseng in appearance, but it has the same healing properties. It’s good for calming viral infections like the flu and herpes.
3. Korean Ginseng Tea: Also called Panax ginseng or Asian ginseng tea, it’s loaded with medicinal benefits. It helps improve memory, boosts concentration, and keeps you mentally alert. Plus, it’s great for restoring physical stamina and enhancing reproductive health.
4. American Ginseng Tea: Found mostly in North American states like Wisconsin and Georgia, this type has a calming effect that helps with stress. It’s also known to relieve cramps and abdominal pain during menstrual cycles in women.

Ginseng Tea Recipes:

Here are 4 easy and delicious ginseng tea recipes for you to try:

1. Classic Ginseng Tea:

Ingredients:

• 1 ginseng tea bag or 1 teaspoon of ginseng tea leaves
• 1 cup of hot water
• Optional: honey or lemon for sweetness and flavor

Instructions:

1. Boil water and let it cool slightly for a minute.
2. Place the ginseng tea bag or leaves in a cup.
3. Pour the hot water over the ginseng tea.
4. Let it steep for about 3-5 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor.
5. Remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves.
6. Add honey or a squeeze of lemon if you like.
7. Stir and enjoy your soothing cup of ginseng tea!

2. Ginseng Citrus Refresher:

Ingredients:

• 1 ginseng tea bag or 1 teaspoon of ginseng tea leaves
• 1 cup of hot water
• 1/2 orange, juiced
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Brew the ginseng tea by placing the tea bag or leaves in a cup and pouring hot water over them. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bag or strain the leaves.
3. Allow the tea to cool for a few minutes.
4. In a separate glass, mix the freshly squeezed orange juice with honey.
5. Pour the ginseng tea over the orange-honey mixture.
6. Stir well and add ice cubes.
7. Give it a final gentle stir and enjoy your refreshing ginseng citrus refresher!

3. Spiced Ginseng Chai Latte:

Ingredients:

• 1 ginseng tea bag or 1 teaspoon of ginseng tea leaves
• 1 black tea bag
• 1 cup of hot water
• 1/2 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• 1-2 teaspoons of honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the water and milk over medium heat.
2. Add the ginseng tea bag, black tea bag, cinnamon stick, cloves, and fresh ginger slices.
3. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the tea bags and strain out the spices.
5. Sweeten with honey if desired.
6. Pour into a mug, and enjoy the comforting warmth of your spiced ginseng chai latte!

4. Berry Bliss Ginseng Smoothie:

Ingredients:

• 1 ginseng tea bag or 1 teaspoon of ginseng tea leaves
• 1/2 cup of hot water
• 1/2 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 banana, frozen
• 1/2 cup of yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Brew the ginseng tea by placing the tea bag or leaves in a cup and pouring hot water over them. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, and then let it cool.
2. In a blender, combine the brewed ginseng tea, mixed berries, frozen banana, yogurt, chia seeds, and honey.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes for an extra refreshing kick and blend again.
5. Pour into a glass, and savor the delightful flavors of your berry bliss ginseng smoothie!

Side Effects of Ginseng Tea:

Just like too much of anything isn’t good, the same goes for ginseng tea. Here’s what you should know before sipping on it:

1. Tummy Troubles: Having too much ginseng tea can make you feel sick—nausea, vomiting, and other stomach problems. It might even bring on a headache.
2. Trouble Sleeping and Jitters: Ginseng tea can be a bit too exciting for your system, causing sleepless nights and making you feel jittery and anxious.
3. Blood Clot Concerns: Korean ginseng tea might mess with how your blood clots, says a study from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Be cautious!
4. Sugar Level Swings: If you’re dealing with diabetes, be careful. Ginseng tea helps control blood sugar, but when mixed with your meds, it might lead to low sugar levels or hypoglycemia.
5. Hormone Hubbub: Drinking ginseng tea for a long time can act like estrogen in your body. This might cause issues like vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women. Pregnant and breastfeeding moms should steer clear due to extra estrogen in the blood.

FAQS:

Can I drink ginseng tea every day?

Absolutely! Drinking ginseng tea every day can be good for you. It’s like giving your body a little boost. But, just like with anything, too much isn’t always better. Start with a cup a day and see how it feels for you.

Can I add sugar to my ginseng tea?

Sure thing! You can add a bit of sugar if you like your tea sweet. It’s like putting a sprinkle of sweetness in your cup. But, if you’re watching your sugar, maybe try a touch of honey or enjoy it plain – ginseng tea has a lovely flavor on its own!

Will gingseng tea keep me up at night?

Nope, not really. Ginseng tea is like a friend who gives you a gentle push in the morning but won’t keep you up all night. It’s low in caffeine, so you can enjoy it even in the evening without worrying about losing sleep.

Can kids drink ginseng tea?

Well, it’s best for grown-ups. Ginseng tea has its magic for adults, but it might be a bit too much for kids. They can stick to their own tasty drinks for now. If in doubt, it’s always good to check with a doctor.