Siberian Ginseng

Although Siberian ginseng has been used traditionally as a tonic to enhance mental and physical performance, there is an absence of compelling clinical evidence to sup- port this claim. The results from open clinical trials published prior to 1985 are dif- ficult to interpret due to numerous methodological flaws, and statistical shortcomings. Furthermore, the results from recent randomized, controlled clinical trials are conflicting, and further clinical trials are needed before any definitive state- ment on therapeutic efficacy can be made. The average daily dose of Siberian gin- seng is 2 to 3 grams of the dried root. Currently, no standardized products, with proven clinical efficacy, are available on the U.S. market. Due to safety concerns, women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Siberian ginseng products. Siber- ian ginseng has been shown to increase blood pressure in clinical trials, therefore it should not be administered to patients with a blood pressure in excess of 180/90 mm Hg. A possible interaction between Siberian ginseng and digitalis has been reported, however the clinical significance of this interaction has not been determined.