A recent study published in the journal "Nutrients" showed that the ginseng plant contains substances that improve gut health and support brain function.
During the study, scientists analyzed dozens of studies related to ginseng and its effect on the so-called "gut-brain axis," and discovered that ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and other bioactive substances found in this plant improve the composition of gut bacteria and also affect the production of neurotransmitters and immune processes that link gut health to the functions of the nervous system.
Data regarding the effect of ginseng on inflammatory bowel disease were particularly promising. In laboratory animal experiments, the plant's active ingredients reduced mucosal damage, promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, and decreased the activity of inflammatory signaling pathways. Similar effects were observed in models of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, obesity, and diabetes, where improvements in gut health were associated with positive changes in brain function and metabolic processes in the body.
The researchers noted that the available data is derived from laboratory and pre-clinical studies, so there is a need to conduct large-scale clinical trials to confirm the effectiveness of this plant on human health and to determine the optimal doses for its use, pointing out that ginseng is considered one of the most promising natural regulators for influencing the function of the intestines and brain.
Ginseng is a well-known plant in folk medicine, used to energize the body in cases of chronic fatigue. Some studies have also shown that the compounds in this plant boost immunity and help fight cancer.
