Long Covid and post viral syndrome should try this

 Tiejun Tang

A recent Meta-Analysis study showed that global estimated pooled prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition was 43%. Fatigue was the most common symptom reported with a prevalence of 23%, followed by memory problems 14% ^[1]

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is the best herb for qi tonifying. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for release fatigue which is due to qi deficiency. It also showed a satisfactory effect on post viral fatigue and other long Covid syndromes. Why Ginseng has such a good effects on the recover stage of Covid?. Let’s find out the mechanism of Ginseng’s therapeutic effect.

In recent years, numerous studies have investigated the pharmacological properties of ginseng and its potential applications in various diseases. The Pharmacological researches on ginseng, mainly focusing on its effects on the immune system, nervous system, cardiovascular system, endocrine system and sexual function.

１.Immune System

Ginseng has been shown to modulate the immune system by enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Studies have demonstrated that ginseng can increase the production of cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which play key roles in the immune response ^[2]. Moreover, ginseng has been found to enhance the proliferation and activation of immune cells, including natural killer cells, T cells, and B cells ^[3]. These effects of ginseng on the immune system have led to its potential use in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases and cancer.

２.Nervous System

Ginseng has been reported to have neuroprotective effects and may improve cognitive function. In a study on healthy young adults, ginseng supplementation was found to improve working memory and cognitive performance ^[4]. Furthermore, ginseng has been shown to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, by protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain ^[5]. The effects of ginseng on the nervous system are thought to be due to its ability to increase the production of neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which promote the growth and survival of neurons ^[6].

３.Cardiovascular System

Ginseng has been reported to have cardiovascular protective effects, including reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and enhancing endothelial function. Studies have shown that ginseng can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients by inhibiting the activity of the renin-angiotensin system and enhancing the production of nitric oxide ^[7]. Moreover, ginseng has been found to improve lipid profiles by reducing serum triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels ^[8]. Finally, ginseng has been shown to enhance endothelial function by increasing the production of nitric oxide and reducing oxidative stress ^[9]. These effects of ginseng on the cardiovascular system make it a promising candidate for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

４.Endocrine System

One of the most intriguing potential benefits of ginseng is its ability to lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2013 examined the effects of Panax ginseng on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients. The study found that Panax ginseng significantly decreased fasting blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance, indicating that it may be a useful treatment for individuals with type 2 diabetes ^[10]. Another study, published in the Journal of Diabetes and its Complications in 2014, examined the effects of American ginseng on glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study found that American ginseng significantly improved glycemic control, as measured by reductions in fasting plasma glucose levels and HbA1c ^[11]. A third study, published in the Journal of Ginseng Research in 2016, examined the effects of fermented red ginseng on glucose and lipid metabolism in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study found that fermented red ginseng significantly improved insulin sensitivity and reduced HbA1c levels^[12]. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Ginseng Research in 2019 analyzed the results of 36 randomized controlled trials examining the effects of ginseng on glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The review found that ginseng significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose levels, HbA1c levels, and postprandial glucose levels ^(13).

５.Sexual function

Ginseng may improve sexual function in both men and women. Here are some examples: A 2013 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined the effects of red ginseng on erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. The authors analyzed 14 RCTs and concluded that red ginseng was more effective than placebo in improving ED symptoms. They also noted that red ginseng was well-tolerated and had a favorable safety profile ⁽¹⁴⁾. A 2002 study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that Korean red ginseng improved sexual arousal in menopausal women. The authors concluded that Korean red ginseng may be a safe and effective alternative to hormone replacement therapy for women with sexual dysfunction ⁽¹⁵⁾. Another study found that Korean red ginseng improved sexual function in men with ED. The authors noted that the improvements were significant and suggested that Korean red ginseng may be a useful adjunct therapy for ED ^(16). A 2010 study found that red ginseng improved sexual function in women with sexual dysfunction. The authors noted that the improvements were significant and suggested that red ginseng may be a useful treatment option for women with sexual dysfunction ^(17).

Conclusion

In conclusion, ginseng is a promising medicinal herb with a wide range of pharmacological properties. Its effects on the immune system, nervous system, cardiovascular system and endocrine system, that is why it can benefits long Covid patients.

However, ginseng is not suitable for all people. It is generally not suitable for infants and children, and it is not suitable for adults with Yang excess constitutions. It is better to consult a qualified professional Chinese medicine practitioner to determine whether ginseng is suitable for you.

References:

1.        Chen C. Global Prevalence of Post-Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Condition or Long COVID: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. J Infect Dis. 2022; ;226 (9):1593-1607.

2.        Kim JH, Yi YS, Kim MY, et al. Immune-stimulatory effects of ginseng oligosaccharides on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in mice. J Ginseng Res. 2014;38(4):276-282.

3.        Wu D, Yan J, Yang Y, et al. Anti-tumor effect of ginsenoside Rg3 on melanoma via inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. J Drug Target. 2018;26(6):502-508.

4.        Reay JL, Kennedy DO, Scholey AB. Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained 'mentally demanding' tasks. J Psychopharmacol. 2006;20(6):771-781. doi: 10.1177/0269881106061516.

5.        Lee YJ, Chung E, Lee KY, Lee YH, Huh B, Lee SK. Ginsenoside-Rb1 acts as a weak phytoestrogen in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Arch Pharm Res. 2003;26(1):58-63.

6.        Lee ST, Chu K, Sim JY, et al. Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance in Alzheimer disease. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord. 2008;22(3):222-226.

7.        Jovanovski E, Jenkins A, Dias AG, et al. Effects of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) on arterial stiffness and blood pressure in healthy individuals: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Soc Hypertens. 2016;10(7):e14.

8.        Kim YJ, Jang MG, Zhu L, et al. The effects of fermented ginseng on lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in hyperlipidemic rat induced by a high-fat diet. Nutrients. 2019;11(1):174.

9.        Zhang Y, Xie M, Ren Y, et al. Ginsenoside Rb1 improves endothelial function in diabetic rats with blood glucose fluctuations via inhibiting endothelial cell apoptosis and dysfunction. Eur J Pharmacol. 2019;859:172529.

10.    Lee SH, Ahn YM, Kim BJ, et al. Effect of Panax ginseng on blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013; 137(1): 342-346.

11.    Vuksan V, Stavro PM, Sievenpiper JL, et al. Similar postprandial glycemic reductions with escalation of dose and administration time of American ginseng in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2000; 23(9): 1221-1226.

12.    Kim JH, Park CY, Lee KJ, et al. Effect of fermented red ginseng on glucose and lipid metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Ginseng Res. 2016; 40(1): 67-72.

13.    Shergis JL, Zhang AL, Zhou W, et al. Panax ginseng in randomised controlled trials: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ginseng Res. 2019; 43(3): 547-558.

14.    Choi YD, Park CW, Jang J, et al. Effects and Mechanisms of Korean Red Ginseng in Treating Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Asian J Androl. 2013;15(5):662-666.

15.    Park KS. Effects of Panax ginseng on Menopausal Symptoms. Int J Impot Res. 2002;14(Suppl 1):53-56.

16.    Hong B, Ji YH, Hong JH, Nam KY, Ahn TY. A Double-blind Crossover Study Evaluating the Efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: A Preliminary Report. J Urol. 2002;168(5):2070-2073.

17.    Oh KJ, Chae MJ, Lee HS, et al. Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Sexual Arousal in Menopausal Women: Placebo-controlled, Double-blind Crossover Clinical Study. J Sex Med. 2010;7(4 Pt 1):1469-1477.