Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems—including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—for its reputed effects on vitality, cognitive function, and overall well-being. In recent decades, its use to support concentration and reduce mental fatigue has been the subject of scientific investigation. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggest that ginseng supplementation can have modest but statistically significant effects on certain aspects of cognitive performance, including attention, working memory, and mental clarity, especially in healthy adults and the elderly.

The proposed mechanisms include ginsenosides (active compounds in ginseng) modulating neurotransmitter activity, improving cerebral blood flow, and exerting antioxidant effects that may protect neurons from oxidative stress. A 2010 systematic review in the "Cochrane Database" found that ginseng may improve certain cognitive outcomes, though the evidence was considered preliminary and limited by study heterogeneity and small sample sizes. More recent studies have echoed these findings but caution that the effect size is generally small to moderate and that methodological quality varies.

Overall, while there is scientific evidence to support the use of ginseng for improving concentration and cognitive performance, the strength of the evidence is moderate (rated 3/5), and ginseng should not be considered a replacement for established interventions for significant cognitive impairment. Its use for mild cognitive enhancement appears justified by both tradition and emerging scientific research.