Ginseng Safety

Before you take ginseng, safety warnings and precautions should be discussed with your healthcare provider if you have any existing medical conditions. You may not be able to safely take ginseng supplements if you have schizophrenia, heart disease, or diabetes. Since ginseng can theoretically decrease the ability of blood platelets to stick together, it could be dangerous during surgery or if you take "blood-thinning" medications.

 

Is Ginseng Safe?

 Ginseng is an herbal supplement often used to enhance memory and mental function. You may not be able to take ginseng safely if you have:
 

 

 

  • An upcoming surgery
  • Had an organ transplant
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
You should also be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
This article refers to Panax ginseng (also known as Asian ginseng, Chinese ginseng, and Korean ginseng). This type of ginseng should not be confused with American ginseng or Siberian ginseng, which are entirely different herbs.
 
(Ginseng Safety Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;