Symptoms

Fatigue is a side effect of many medical and non-medical conditions, including depression, illness, mental exertion, physical exertion, and stress. Signs of fatigue include mental and physical exhaustion, lethargy, sleepiness and general weakness.

How Ginseng Can Help

In Chinese medicine, ginseng is the herb of choice to combat fatigue - regardless of the underlying cause. Both animal and human studies have found ginseng’s tonic effects stimulate the central nervous system, improve energy metabolism during exercise, boost metabolic activity in the brain, and stimulate nerve impulses in muscles - all of which can improve mental and physical and performance.

Dosages

During periodic times of fatigues, enjoy 1 to 3 cups a day of ginseng tea. Ginseng can also be used as a daily supplement to help combat long-term fatigue - however, before taking ginseng, speak with your physician about whether the herb is for you. The dosage is one 200mg capsule twice a day; or 1/2 teaspoon of liqiud extract twice a day; or 1 teaspoon of tincture twice a day. If taking ginseng for an extended period, plan on taking one-week break from the herb every four to five weeks. This reduces the chance of possible hypertension, insomnia or restlessness that some health authorities believe can develop with long-term ginseng usage.