Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng
For the health condition: Endurance (lack of)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), has a long history of traditional use in East Asian medicine to enhance physical performance, combat fatigue, and improve stamina. In recent decades, there has been a growing body of scientific research investigating ginseng's effects on endurance and physical performance. Several clinical trials and animal studies suggest that ginseng may improve exercise endurance by enhancing energy metabolism, reducing oxidative stress, and delaying fatigue. Some randomized controlled trials have reported modest improvements in physical endurance and reduced perception of fatigue in both athletes and non-athletes who took ginseng supplements for several weeks. Proposed mechanisms include increased glycogen storage, improved oxygen utilization, and modulation of stress hormones. However, not all studies have found significant effects, and the overall quality of evidence is moderate, with considerable variation in ginseng types, dosages, and study designs. Meta-analyses indicate a trend toward benefit but emphasize the need for more rigorous, large-scale clinical trials. In summary, while ginseng’s traditional use for boosting endurance is now partially supported by scientific studies, the evidence is not unequivocal, and ginseng should be considered a potentially useful, but not proven, supplement for enhancing endurance and combating fatigue.

More about ginseng
More about Endurance (lack of)