Made from ginseng root and ground coffee, Ginseng coffee is becoming increasingly popular. And it can provide a range of medical advantages. Here are 10 health benefits of ginseng coffee!
For millennia, ginseng has been used for its medicinal qualities. The root was discovered in China more than 5,000 years ago and was seen as a treatment in traditional Chinese medicine for a wide range of diseases.
It later became popular worldwide, with different forms ranging from extracts to capsules to ginseng powder used as dietary supplements.
But it’s only in the last few years that ginseng coffee has taken root in the United States and elsewhere. And for good reason. Its active ingredients pack many of the same health benefits.
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What is ginseng coffee?
Ginseng coffee comes in two varieties. One has an espresso base that is then mixed with ginseng root extract. It is somewhat astringent as ginseng has a naturally bitter taste. This is usually mellowed by adding cream and sweetener.
The other type consists of instant coffee mixed with a powdered form of the ginseng root. It comes in individual packets that include creamer and sweetener. It tastes more like regular coffee.
Both kinds of ginseng coffee are believed to offer a host of health benefits — ranging from better cognitive function to lower anxiety to stress relief. It can be made with both Asian ginseng (or Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).
Benefits of ginseng coffee
The potential health advantages of ginseng coffee are rooted primarily in the ginseng itself. Here are 10 proven health benefits of this unique beverage.
1. Heightened brain function and cognitive health
Ginseng has been linked to better memory, improved mood, greater alertness, and more focused concentration. These attributes can be enhanced when mixed with the caffeine in coffee.
In addition, some research indicates that substances in ginseng like ginsenosides and compound K can shield the brain from harm caused by free radicals. Free radicals can increase the risk of getting diseases like cancer and heart disease.
2. Can reduce anxiety
Ginseng has been linked to effectively reducing and limiting occurrences of anxiety and depression due to stress. It can also lessen the symptoms of those diseases.
It works by suppressing stress and by helping to protect the nervous system, which can offset potential causes of depression. It can even help reduce occurrences of brain illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease and help limit cognitive decline.
3. Immune system support
Antibacterial and antifungal properties in ginseng may help boost the body’s immune system and increase levels of beneficial antioxidants. That can help reduce the effects of infections and help protect against certain diseases.
In fact, ginseng can play a significant role in increasing immunity against cancer, certain infections, and autoimmune diseases.
And some scientific evidence shows that a type of American ginseng extract can limit the frequency and severity of colds in adults.
4. Cancer prevention
The same antioxidants in ginseng that help aid with immunity can also play a role in significantly decreasing the risk of getting cancer. And it can aid in recovering from cancer.
Some research suggests that ginseng use improves survival rates for breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients. It also has been shown to protect against the incidence of all types of cancer.
In addition, ginseng may also reduce the side effects of cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
5. Protects against diabetes
Ginsenosides in American ginseng have been linked to regulating blood sugar levels in those who have type 2 diabetes. They can also help prevent complications from diabetes that can affect the eyes and heart.
In addition, studies show ginseng berry extract can lead to weight loss by helping to reduce diabetes-related obesity. It can also lower insulin sensitivity, decrease cholesterol, and help regulate appetite.
6. Anti-inflammatory properties
Certain anti-inflammatory benefits are also attributed to ginseng sprouts and the ginsenoside compound.
Researchers at the University of Hong Kong treated different human immune cells with ginseng extract. They discovered that ginseng could suppress a gene that causes inflammation.
Scientists also found that ginseng could help reduce inflammation in the lungs, kidneys, colon, liver, and stomach in mice, suggesting it could eventually be used as an anti-inflammatory herbal medicine.
Furthermore, research has shown that it can be effective in reducing inflammation and digestive pain linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
7. Can reduce aging
Ginseng may be able to inhibit the signs of aging by helping promote a process known as autophagy in the body. Autophagy helps cells work more efficiently by breaking down and reusing old cell parts, essentially promoting healthy cell growth.
Clinical research shows ginseng can increase the presence of autophagy-related genes in the colon, liver, and stomach. And ginseng’s anti-oxidant effects have been shown to reduce free radicals, which are also related to aging.
These indicate that ginseng can help reduce the effects of aging in the human body, including better heart health, nervous system function, and motor function.
And it’s even been shown to have positive effects on skin health, effectively reducing the signs of aging
8. Treats erectile dysfunction
Consumption of ginseng coffee can help alleviate sexual dysfunction and improve sexual arousal, performance, and endurance. Compounds in Korean ginseng extract (from Korean red ginseng) have been shown to reduce erectile dysfunction and increase penile blood circulation while offering muscle-relaxing properties.
A study tracking participants with mild to moderate ED took a dose of red ginseng four times a day for eight weeks. After the study, results indicated that participants had reduced incidents of premature ejaculation.
9. Can improve stamina and fight fatigue
It’s well known that caffeine in coffee can help boost energy and stave off tiredness. But ginseng has similar benefits.
Substances in ginseng can help the body release hormones that can boost stamina, relieve tension, fight fatigue, and increase energy levels.
A review of 10 studies indicated ginseng could alleviate symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome significantly after just two weeks.
10. Aid in digestion
The coffee in ginseng coffee can help improve digestion. Studies show it stimulates the production of a digestive hormone called gastrin which helps break down food. It also helps food move more efficiently through the digestive tract.
Plus, ginseng has been shown to reduce the severity of diarrhea by improving gut function.
Risks of consuming ginseng coffee
While a significant number of studies point to the different benefits of ginseng and ginseng coffee, more research needs to be done to substantiate some of the reported medicinal claims, as well as possible effects of ginseng with long-term use.
Ginseng may also have certain interactions with specific kinds of medication. So speak with your medical provider before starting a ginseng regimen or adding ginseng coffee to your diet.
FAQ
As with any caffeinated drink, it’s best not to consume it shortly before bedtime. Additionally, it’s a good idea to drink ginseng coffee with food to help the body better absorb it. If you’re new to ginseng coffee, start with lower quantities, then gradually increase as your body becomes more accustomed to it.
Ginseng is a natural stimulant, so along with increasing energy, it may increase heart rate and cause you to feel somewhat jittery, especially if you’re not used to consuming it. As caffeine in coffee is a stimulant as well, consuming ginseng coffee can increase the effects.
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