Synopsis

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

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) has been studied for its potential role in preventing colds, particularly in standardized extract forms such as CVT-E002 (commonly known as COLD-fX). Several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials have investigated its efficacy for reducing the incidence, severity, and duration of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in adults. A 2005 double-blind study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that participants taking American ginseng extract experienced a modest reduction in the number of colds and the severity of symptoms compared to placebo. A 2006 Cochrane review concluded that there was “some evidence” that North American ginseng extract reduced the risk of getting a cold, though results were not consistent across all studies and the effect size was modest. Proposed mechanisms include immune modulation, such as enhanced activity of natural killer cells and increased production of certain cytokines.

However, limitations such as small sample sizes, variability in extract potency, and industry funding of some studies warrant caution. Major health agencies, including the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, rate the evidence as limited but promising for cold prevention, with calls for larger, independent trials. In summary, the use of American ginseng for cold prevention is supported by a moderate level of scientific evidence, specifically for certain standardized extracts, but it is not definitive and should not replace conventional preventive measures.

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