ginseng is a mild blood thinner so avoid use if taking prescription blood thinners. The AMA recommends ginseng for type 2 diabetes but it should be avoided by type 1's using insulin, since the combination will lower blood sugar too much. Pregnant and nursing women and children going through puberty should also avoid ginseng. Ginseng abuse syndrome (using far too much) can lead to sleeplessness, although, used in appropriate amounts it will aid sleep.
Otherwise it is best used on a daily basis, typically taking up to 90 days for all the benefits to show their full effect.
The main benefits are:
-diabetes control
-lowers blood pressure/acts as vasodilator
-helps control cholesterol
-improves short term memory/ability to concentrate
-boosts endurance and stamina
-boosts immune system (85-90% fewer colds and flus)
-powerful anti-oxidant
-helps cope with stress
