There are many different remedies for the symptoms of the common cold. Some of these have been shown to be effective in clinical studies of people with colds, and some are remedies that have multiple uses, such as decongestants and antihistamines. Herbal remedies are becoming more and more popular. This article focuses on ginseng remedies for the common cold, with information on the different types of ginseng, their historical uses, and scientific research related to their effectiveness.
Panax ginseng, American ginseng, Siberian ginseng, female ginseng, Indian ginseng, Peruvian ginseng, and sometimes just “ginseng” can be listed as ingredients in a host of health supplements. All of these were used in the traditional medicine of the countries in which they grow. Panax is a term that is applied to several different varieties of ginseng, including Chinese, Korean, American, and Canadian plants. Usually it is the roots of the plants that are used medicinally, but for some conditions the leaf is dried and steeped for tea.
Ginseng remedies for the common cold sold in department stores, pharmacies, and health food stores may contain any form of the plant. It is necessary to read the ingredient label to determine exactly which plant is included. Some of the over-the-counter remedies for the common cold may list a proprietary blend or plant phenols, but if it’s unclear which plants are used, it’s best to avoid them. Natural does not always mean safe. Some herbal medicines are known to interact with other prescription and over-the-counter medications and unwanted side effects can occur. An herbalist can advise you on side effects and drug interactions, if your doctor is unsure.
Native Americans used ginseng for various medicinal purposes. The leaf was dried and steeped in a tea to treat coughs, strengthen the blood, increase energy and memory, as well as a sexual stimulant. The root was chewed and eaten raw as a digestive aid, to promote prostate health, and to slow the growth of cancer. The root was boiled and used in tea to ease menstrual cramps and combat the effects of radiation poisoning on the system. Several herbal remedies for the common cold are mentioned in Mary Summer Rain’s book compiling the lore of the Native American healer No Eyes, but ginseng is not among them, although its other uses are mentioned. Common cold remedies with ginseng may have been used by other Native American healers or if there was a cough.
Scientists and some manufacturers of ginseng common cold remedies try to isolate the active ingredients, called polysaccharides, eleutherosides, or gensenosides, depending on the plant used. Other manufacturers grind the roots or the whole plant, purify and encapsulate the powder. Others use alcohol to create a concentrated form of the powder to increase potency. The wild form of the plant is believed to contain more gensenosides than cultivated varieties, but heavy harvesting has endangered the wild growth of the plant and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Some health supplement companies sell Siberian ginseng to prevent the common cold and viruses due to its usefulness as an immune system stimulant. Siberian ginseng is not a form of panax ginseng; the active components are called eleutherosides, instead of gensenosides, as is the case with panax varieties. The scientific name is Eleutherococcus senticosus. Panax ginseng can cause unwanted side effects, such as nervousness, excitability, increased blood pressure, and heart palpitations. Siberian ginseng is not believed to cause these effects. Scientific studies have shown that it can stabilize blood sugar levels and blood pressure. As with any herb, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as both safety and efficacy have been evaluated at these doses. For additional research information on Siberian ginseng and other common cold remedies, visit the Immune System Booster Guide.