Chronic stress is a persistent condition characterized by ongoing exhaustion that affects daily functioning for an extended period, typically six months or more. The diagnosis of chronic stress is made after ruling out other causes. This condition can arise from a variety of factors. One hypothesis suggests that it may relate to metabolic issues. Research has explored various aspects, including cortisol levels, amino acids, nucleotides, and the activation of the body’s regulatory systems, focusing particularly on oxidative stress.
Ginseng, or Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, is a medicinal plant that has been utilized for centuries, particularly in Eastern medicine. It contains three times more polysaccharides than white ginseng, components that studies suggest play a role in regulating hormonal functions and reducing oxidative stress. Given its potential effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and cortisol levels, ginseng may offer significant support for individuals experiencing chronic stress.
To evaluate the potential benefits of ginseng, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted. The study involved 50 participants aged 19 to 65 who were diagnosed with chronic stress but did not have complications related to blood pressure, blood chemistry, urinalysis, imaging studies, or electrocardiograms (ECG). Participants who worked night shifts, were taking medications, or were pregnant were excluded from the study. They were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received capsules containing 3 grams of red ginseng daily for six weeks, while the other group received a placebo. Final assessments included a visual analog scale (VAS) to measure stress levels, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. Additionally, biochemical markers of oxidative stress and salivary cortisol levels were measured.
Despite the study revealing some effects related to ginseng, there were notable limitations. The findings did not specify a distinct differentiation between the impacts on the ginseng and placebo groups. Moreover, there were no significant changes in antioxidant levels or cortisol that suggested harmful side effects.
Other research related to Panax ginseng highlights the connection between oxidative stress and hormonal regulation, suggesting that antioxidants might provide therapeutic benefits. In animal studies, the addition of ginseng root has shown promise for reducing the occurrence of stress-related events. The final results indicated that ginseng may be an effective support option for individuals over the age of 50 who experience chronic stress. However, further studies with larger participant groups are necessary to confirm these findings and to evaluate the long-term effects and safety of ginseng use.
Based on:
Won-Suk Sung, Ha-Ra Kang, Chan-Yung Jung, Seong-Sik Park, Seung-Ho Lee, Eun-Jung Kim, Efficacy of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) for middle-aged and moderate level of chronic fatigue patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Volume 48, 2020, 102246, ISSN 0965-2299, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102246.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229919310659)
