Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is an adaptogenic herb that has been used as potent energy tonic for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Although we do not yet fully understand the mechanism for many of Ginseng’s medicinal benefits, modern science using controlled clinical trials began to unravel scientific evidence on the health benefits of Ginseng supplementation. Single doses of the traditional herbal treatment Panax ginseng have recently been shown to lower blood glucose levels and elicit cognitive improvements in healthy, overnight-fasted volunteers.

These young adults then consumed capsules containing either a Panax ginseng extract or a placebo, and 30 minutes later a drink containing glucose or placebo. A further 30 minutes later (i.e. 60 minutes post-baseline/capsules) they completed the “cognitive demand” battery six times in immediate succession. The participants were divided into four groups: Placebo (0mg Ginseng/0 mg glucose); Ginseng (200mg Ginseng/0 mg glucose); Glucose (0 mg Ginseng/25 g glucose); or Ginseng/Glucose (200 mg Ginseng/25 g glucose). Blood glucose levels were measured prior to the day’s treatment, and before and after the post-dose completions of the battery.

These results confirm that Panax Ginseng may possess glucoregulatory properties and can enhance cognitive performance. The author further hypothesized that the cognitive improvements may be related to the glycemic properties of Panax Ginseng.
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Rhodiola Rosea Improves Physical and Cognitive Function

Rhodiala Rosea is a herbal plant that grows in the cold regions of the world, and has been widely known as an adaptogen. Numerous studies have demonstrated that Rhodiola rosea enhances cognitive and physical performance.

Recently a 12-wk German study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a commercially available Rhodiola rosea extract (200mg) that also contains supportive nutrients including vitamins E, B6, B12, folate, and magnesium.

120 adults with physical and cognitive deficiencies participated in this study. Two different dosage regimens were used. One group of 60 (group 1) took 2 capsules orally in the morning after breakfast, and the other group (group 2) took 1 capsule after breakfast and 1 after lunch. Three medical examinations were performed during the course of the study (at baseline, after 6 wk, and after 12 wk). The evaluated symptoms were divided into physical disturbances such as exhaustion, decreased motivation, daytime sleepiness, decreased libido, sleep disturbances, and cognitive complaints (eg, concentration deficiencies, forgetfulness, decreased memory, susceptibility to stress, irritability).

A statistically highly significant improvement in physical and cognitive deficiencies was observed at the end of the study in both groups, as well as in the separately evaluated groups 1 and 2. Improvements in group 1 were more pronounced than in group 2. Improvements in physical performance were observed for 86% of participants in the combined overall group, 92% in group 1, and 79 % in group 2. Improved cognitive performance was demonstrated in 77% of participants in the overall group, 90% in group 1, and in 64% in group 2.

Although the exact mode of action of Rhodiola rosea extract remains unknown, the results of this study are very promising. The positive effect of Rhodiola rosea is supported by the other ingredients: vitamins E, B6, B12, magnesium, and folate. The study author further suggests that such nutritional regime can be recommended as a supportive treatment option for adults with physical and cognitive deficiencies; however, placebo-controlled clinical trials are still needed to confirm these promising findings.

Source: Advances In Natural Therapy, 2007, Vol 24 (4): 929-39