Nootropic Solutions

Anti-Anxiety Nootropic Stacks

01 Jun 2022 By admin

Nootropic Stacks for Anti-Anxiety

What Is Anxiety?

The feeling of uneasiness or distress could be said to be familiar to most people. Almost everyone has experienced worry, uneasiness, or general fear. From mile to severe, these feelings almost know no bounds. These feelings can also be trigged by innocuous events or sincerely scary situations (exams, interviews, romantic or financial stress, or for medical reasons).

Although some chronic cases or severe situations should be handled by mental health professionals, everyday anxiety is almost always able to be conquered. Whether through anti-anxiety practices, minor lifestyle changes, or holistic herbal supplements, there are answers to everyday stress.

Brain and nootropic supplements are one of the most popular choices for handling everyday anxiety and stress. These types of supplements are most commonly referred to as “smart drugs,” or “nootropic stacks.” They make life a lot easier by “hacking” the brain into performing better, and in this case, with less anxiety.

The first step, however, is better understanding nootropics, and what they can offer the human body and mind.

What Are Nootropics?

Nootropics today have become synonymous with the term “smart drug” or “smart nootropic.” They are especially popular amongst Western culture. Nootropics are usually categorized within one of three classifications including prescription drugs, synthetic substances, or dietary supplements

Nootropics itself was first coined in the 1960s by Romanian scientist Coneliu E. Giurgea. This man derived the term by combining latin phrases “Noos” and “Tropein”, which meant “mind” and “bend”, respectively. They would be defined as substances capable of improving cognitive function with almost no side effects. Usually, these cognitive improvements affected areas such as executive function, attention span, memory, creativity, energy, or motivation. To summarize, nootropic herbs aim to enhance the function of the mind or body.

Giurgea formulated five areas of criteria to declare a substance a nootropic including:

Aiding or improving working memory or learning
Supporting brain function under hypoxic conditions
Protecting the brain from physical or chemical toxicity
Enhancing natural cognitive function
Being non-toxic to humans.

Utilizing these criteria, it becomes easier to determine if a substance is a nootropic.

How Can Nootropics Help with Anxiety?

Given nootropics have the ability to improve mental performance and protect the brain from toxicity, there is a lot of room for a nootropic supplement to have the ability to improve the conditions surrounding anxiety. In fact, there are a lot of nootropics which could be considered anti-anxiety.

Much proven research exists which backs these stress-relieving nootropics, firmly demonstrating their ability to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Some of these nootropics help reduce cortisol levels, others help regulate critical neurotransmitters (especially those associated with producing calming effects), and some can even transform brain waves into more relaxed states of mind.

The Best Anti-Anxiety Nootropics

Many nootropics are considered anti-anxiety, but some work better than others. This is a list of some of the top performing, anti-anxiety nootropics for any nootropic stack.

5-HTP

5-HTP is most well-known for its powerful ability to work as a precursor for serotonin. Serotonin is one of the most critical neurotransmitters in the brain and is typically associated with learning and mood. It can also aid in a number of other physiological functions. 5-HTP is so great due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and, ultimately, effect the production of serotonin. For these reasons, it is a common anti-anxiety and mood nootropic (even being used for things like depression). When used properly, this nootropic is an excellent addition to almost any anti-anxiety nootropic stack.

Our product, Pirate Chill, utilizes a powerful 5-HTP formula to help reduce anxiety and improve overall relaxation.

Passionflower

Passionflower is one of the most powerful anti-anxiety nootropics to date. This is the reason it is commonly a part of many effective nootropic stacks and supplements. It purportedly works by increasing the natural form of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and relaxing the activity of brain cells. It has been used by Western culture for centuries and has an even deeper history throughout more traditional, holistic medicines. Passionflower works even better when it is used in combination with other anti-anxiety and relaxation herbs.

Pirate Chill takes full advantage of the stress-relieving properties offered by Passionflower.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is a critical, key amino acid and is typically found in various forms of tea. It has a long history of use as a stress-reliever and calming nootropic throughout traditional Chinese medicine. It can be used to support the brain’s ability to maintain positive mood. It is well-known for its ability to promote relaxation and tranquility. This herb also possesses the ability to improve focus, attention span, alertness, concentration, and other mental functions.

L-Theanine can be found in combination with other nootropics on this list within our maximum relaxation formula, Pirate Chill.

Valerian Extract

Although valerian root has been a common nootropic for improving sleep, it has also been well-purported for its anti-anxiety, stress relief, and overall relaxation properties. While there are many studies which support the concept this herb can help improve anxiety, there are also many anecdotal experiences which back this evidence up fully.

Valerian is one of the most common herbs for natural anxiety relief and can be found in one of our proprietary formulae, Pirate Chill.

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola works as an adaptogenic nootropic as much as it does a natural stress reliever. It has been used for its ability to boost overall cognitive function and has a history of offering great anti-stress properties. Gotu Kola has purportedly been able to offer both mental and physical stress relieving effects. It has also been used for anxiety, depression, and even mood swings.

B Vitamins

Probably one of the most underrated sets of nootropics are the B Vitamins. B Vitamins are notorious for their ability to promote natural energy in the body and improve the overall nervous system. Having a strong, healthy nervous system and ample energy is one of the best ways to combat the symptoms of stress and live an overall better life.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola is popularly used for its adaptogenic properties, although it also offers a variety of other nootropic properties as well. As an adaptogenic herb, however, it holds potent keys for reducing stress and letting the mind and body a chance to better perform. This nootropic can even help control mood swings. It can also help improve blood circulation, which has purportedly been able to offer the mind and body the ability to reduce stress. This is even one of the reasons stress balls work so well!

Although our product Pirate Blast is not primarily for stress, it does have relaxation effects which are sometimes better suited for some individuals, depending upon their ultimate nootropic goals.

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine, also known simply as “PS”, is a phospholipid found in some fatty parts of the human brain. Its primary purpose is to help the body maintain homeostasis and to ensure fluidity in terms of receptors and neurotransmitters is sound. Many sources suggest that PS can be used to reduce symptoms of stress through its ability to counteract cortisol production. Cortisol is one of the main reasons the mind and body feel stress to begin with, so this makes a lot of sense.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a strong adaptogen and helps the mind and body properly balance stress. Sometimes, this nootropic is used with PS to create amplified anti-stress effects, thus these two herbs are very commonly found in nootropic stacks together. Although it is often thought of as a weaker nootropic, many consider it an underrated, holistic herb with a wide potential for improving mood.

GABA

GABA, also known as gamma aminobutyric acid, has a shorter history of being used for its anti-anxiety relieving properties, only becoming popular within the last fifty years or so. It is an important brain chemical and a neurotransmitter. In fact, roughly 40 percent or more of the human brain’s inhibitory synaptic processes use GABA. For this reason, it is often included in many stress reducing nootropic supplements and stacks.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is very popular throughout Ayurvedic medicine and has been used for thousands of years for its ability to treat mood, reduce anxiety, and combat depression. It also works as a general cognitive enhancer, improving mental functions such as learning, memory, and focus. While it offers many other benefits, it is still a very common component in a lot of nootropic stacks focusing on stress relief.

Nootropic Stacking Anxiety Herbs

Although it is entirely possible to use many of these nootropic herbs by themselves, sometimes it works better to combine some of these nootropics to form more powerful nootropic stacks. Some supplements are already composed to utilizing combined effects from more than one of these nootropics. Pirate Chill, for example, has some of the top anti-anxiety and stress-relieving nootropics all included in its proprietary formula. This nootropic relies on a 5-HTP, L-Theanine, Passionflower, and Valerian Extract blend to give users the maximum relaxation and stress-relief they deserve.

While many nootropic stacks for stress relief exist, some will always be better than others. It is important to select a stack that includes an effective ingredient list from a trusted manufacturer.

Final Words on Nootropics for Anxiety

To summarize there are dozens of nootropics out there which can help improve relaxation; however, some of these nootropics will work better together than others, and some will be more effective in reducing stress. Anti-anxiety nootropic stacks are one of the most common, holistic ways to decrease and combat anxiety. They are also one of the most popular ways to boost mental capacity and cognitive function, helping the brain achieve optimal performance. Finding the right nootropic stack for an individual in terms of anxiety relief is imperative in properly advantaging the stress relieving power these nootropic herbs possess.

Nootropic Solutions

Best Nootropics for Fertility

28 Oct 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Using Nootropics for Fertility, Pregnancy, and Conception

Of the many benefits nootropics can offer, some provide excellent boosts to fertility and libido. And while improving fertility is a sensitive topic and all nootropics are different, these herbs are classified as such for their ability to offer improvements that are still generally considered safe for consumption when free of contaminants and interactions with other drugs (Bent, 2008). Still, it is important to remember fertility (and the creation of life) is such a sensitive topic that it is imperative to consult a physician before adding any vitamin, nootropic, or supplement to a daily regimen. The nootropics on this list have been isolated as some of the safest, most widely utilized herbs for fertility.

Top Nootropics for Fertility

Out of the many nootropics for fertility, a handful stand out as clear winners. They are both generally regarded as safe for human consumption, have a lot of history in terms of use, and are easily accessible as a dietary supplement.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful, natural fertility boosters for men, with the purported ability to improve semen content and quality (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has been proven to help with erectile dysfunction (Weil, 2004). Several studies and clinical trials exist which highlight the plant’s ability to improve male infertility, increase serum testosterone, and increase luteinizing hormones (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998). Generally, the herb achieves its improved fertility (in both men and women) by increasing blood circulation throughout the body (Ambiye et al., 2013). For these reasons it is also one of the best natural aphrodisiacs (2013).

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is a strong herb in the treatment of inferility and libido in women (Chevallier, 2016). Still, the plant has been used for thousands of years to treat sex-related ailments in men, including impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, and general libido (2016). While the herb may offer these benefits, however, it is important to note it could come at the cost of sperm production count and quality (Mishra et al., 2018). For this reason, it is more commonly used for its ability to promote libido and sexual function in females (2018).

Honorable Mentions

Although there are many nootropics which can help with fertility, conception, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and libido, a couple others shine under the spotlight. Tongkat Ali is a well-known aphrodisiac, boosting libido and promoting healthy sexual activity (Tambi & Imran, 2010). The herb is able to reduce stress and stabilize sex drive (2010). It has also been suggested to improve testosterone and overall sexual performance in men (Ang et al., 2000). It even bears the traditional nickname “Ali’s Walking Stick,” playing on its purported aphrodisiac properties (Rehman et al., 2016).

Another honorable mention goes out to the Cordyceps Mushroom. This mushroom is also well known for its ability to improve fertility in both men and women alike (Panda & Swain, 2011). It has been purportedly able to increase sperm count, improve erectile dysfunction, and extend erectile capacity. Cordyceps is even suggested to have the ability to increase physical endurance during sex. Many studies have outlined its potential as a general aphrodisiac, and it has been called a powerful female aphrodisiac, even delaying muscle fatigue (2011).

Closing Notes on Using Nootropics for Fertility

Finding the right nootropic for any stack can mean a lot of trial and error, however, the nootropics on this list have proven themselves to stand out from the rest when it comes to fertility and conception. Specific nootropics obviously provide varying effects from individual to individual, but depending upon the desired outcome, usually the choice is rather obvious. For instance, a male is more likely to use Ashwagandha for its purported abilities to improve erectile dysfunction, while a female is more likely to use Bacopa Monnieri for its purported abilities to improve libido and treat infertility. For these reasons, it is worth reading up on all the nootropics on this list before deciding upon the perfect choice for any nootropic stack.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources

Ambiye, V., Langade, D., Dongre, S., Aptikar, P., Kulkarni, M., and Dongre, A. (2013). Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 571420. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/571420

Ang, H., Cheang, H., and Yusof, A. (2000). Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats. Exp Anim. Vol. 49(1). Pp. 35-8. DOI: 10.1538/expanim.49.35

Bent S. (2008). Herbal medicine in the United States: review of efficacy, safety, and regulation: grand rounds at University of California, San Francisco Medical Center. Journal of general internal medicine, 23(6), 854–859. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-008-0632-y

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Mishra, R. K., Singh, S., & Singh, S. K. (2018). Natural products in regulation of male fertility. The Indian journal of medical research. Vol. 148(Suppl). Pp. S107–S114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1968_17

Murray, M., and Pizzorno, J. (1998). The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Third Edition. Atria Paperback. ISBN 978-1-4516-6300-6

Panda, A. K., & Swain, K. C. (2011). Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.78183

Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., and Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Vol. 21(3). Pp. 331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331

Tambi, M. I., & Imran, M. K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian journal of andrology, 12(3), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1038/aja.2010.7 Weil, A. (2004). Natural Health, Natural Medicine. Houghton Mifflin Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-618-47903-0

Nootropics Library

The Nootropics Library: Poria Mushroom

29 Sep 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Everything You Need to Know About Poria Mushroom

General Information

Scientific Name: Wolfiporia extensa (of the Polyporaceae family)

Any Other Names: Bai Fu Ling, Bokryung, Champignon Poria, China Root, Cocos, Fu Ling, Hoelen, Matsuhodo, Poria cocos, Tuckahoe, Wolfiporia cocos

Primary Constituents: Amino Acids, Monosaccharides, Triterpene derivatives (primarily Pachymic acid)

Country or Region of Origin: Found in Subterranean Habitats; Grows on Decaying Wood; Native to China (not the same as Native American Tuckahoe);

Known Uses: Memory, Anti-Fatigue, Promotes Cellular Function, Improves Immunity, Stress and Anxiety, Digestive Support, and More

General History & Introduction

Poria mushroom holds a strong place in traditional Chinese medicine (Cheng et al., 2015). In fact, it has been considered an edible, medicinal mushroom in Chinese medicine for more than two thousand years (Li et al., 2019). Recently, the fungus has been receiving more attention in modern studies and research. Poria is typically hailed for its primary triterpene derivative, Pachymic acid (PA), which has been used for a lexicon on effects (Cheng et al., 2015). These therapeutic constituents are extracted from the spores of the fungus and used as a supplement and medicine (Prieto et al., 2003). The benefits of these extractions are extensive. In fact, some of the effects the constituents purportedly offer even includes anticancer benefits (Cheng et al., 2015).

Nootropic Benefits of Poria Mushroom

Brain Health and Memory

Poria Mushroom has a long history of being used as a memory booster (Lin et al., 2012). The herb’s innate support for cerebral blood flow has been suggested to contribute to its cognitive enhancing and memory improving properties (Sun et al., 2021). For similar reasons, the fungus has been suggested for use as a treatment for dementia, as it has the potential to repair the memory (Lin et al., 2012). Traditional Chinese medicine has turned to the mushroom to treat many neurogenetic disorders (2012). It is used to enhance learning ability and associated memory recall (Wu et al., 2020).

Promotes Cellular Function, Prevents Fatigue, Improves Immunity

Poria Mushroom has been referenced in many ancient Chinese texts, dating as far back as three thousand years ago (Lin et al., 2012). It has been used by many renown physicians throughout these generations for its ability to improve general vitality (2012). Poria is a traditional, holistic remedy for chronic fatigue syndrome (Chen et al., 2010). The mushroom is also considered in many studies to be an immune-modulatory herb (Sun, 2014), meaning the herb has the ability to offer favorable modifications to the immune system.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression

The mushroom has purported anti-depressant-like properties and may have a significantly favorable impact on mood (Huang et al., 2020). Poria’s antioxidant effects contribute heavily to its anti-anxiety properties (Lin et al., 2012). The fungus has been studied for its relaxation and sleep-improving qualities (Chen et al., 2010). Poria’s reported sedative and relaxation effects have only briefly been investigated, however, the promising results which exist thus far warrant further investigation (Huang et al., 2020).

Digestive Support

Poria Mushroom is well-known for its use in providing aid and relief to the digestive tract (Gong et al., 1989). As a supplement, the mushroom can ease the symptoms of diarrhea and relax the stomach (Li et al., 2019). The mushroom is also an effective diuretic (Huang et al., 2020), which means it promotes the production of urine.

Other Benefits

Poria has a long history of being used for respiratory support and to treat kidney disease (Li et al., 2019). The herb can provide aid for people suffering from insomnia, cough, and various types of infections (2019). Poria Mushroom is being investigated for its purported positive effects on pancreatic cancer patients (Cheng et al., 2015). A polysaccharidum-based solution of Poria cocos has been approved as an oral medicine to treat many types of cancers (Li et al., 2019). The Chinese FDA has also cleared the herb to treat hepatitis and to help with radiation and chemotherapy. And many studies have determined Poria to possess remarkable antitumor properties (2019). The fungi has been known to prevent some cancers from forming (Cuellar et al., 1997).

Poria has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammation effects (Li et al., 2019). The mushroom is considered anti-hemorrhagic, which basically means it promotes hemostasis. It has been called an anti-ageing herb. It can reduce the symptoms and help resist the development of diabetes (2019). Like its anti-inflammation properties, the mushroom has the purported ability to reduce swelling (Cuellar et al., 1997). It can significantly improve immune function (1997).

Dosing and Usage Information

Poria Mushroom is typically offered as a dietary supplement in capsule form. Sometimes, it is used as a powder (much like a pre-work out supplement), although the capsules are far more popular. Daily serving sizes of Poria in terms of dietary supplements can vary greatly with some supplements including as little as 50 mg of extract. With that said, the mainstream brands of Poria supplements range from suggesting 400 to 1000 mg of extract per day.

Side Effects

Although research is still a little young, Poria Mushroom is generally considered safe for most individuals. Still, the fungus has been used for a variety of purposes throughout traditional Chinese medicine and has been accepted in Chinese culture for its therapeutic benefits. No side effects are typically reported, although pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid use of Poria.

Conclusion

Although Poria Mushroom is less known and less discussed than other nootropics, the herb is still being investigated for its therapeutic benefits (and with promising results pouring in). Chinese medicine has fully incorporated the herb for its distinguished and proven pharmaceutical effects (Li et al., 2019). While the verdict is still out in Western culture, it has become more popular around the rest of the world. And Poria’s versatile uses more than make it worth further research. The mushroom is an excellent candidate for many nootropic stacks.

A Note from NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources:

Chen, R., Moriya, J., Yamakawa, J., Takahashi, T., and Kanda, T. (2010). Traditional chinese medicine for chronic fatigue syndrome. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. Vol. 7(1). Pp. 3–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nen017

Cheng, S., Swanson, K., Eliaz, I., McClintick, J. N., Sandusky, G. E., and Sliva, D. (2015). Pachymic acid inhibits growth and induces apoptosis of pancreatic cancer in vitro and in vivo by targeting ER stress. PloS one. Vol. 10(4) [e0122270]. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0122270

Cuellar, M., Giner, R., and Recio, M. (1997). Effect of the basidiomycete Poria cocos on experimental dermatitis and other inflammatory conditions. Chem Pharm Bull. Tokyo. Vol. 45. Pp. 492-4.

Gong, Q., Wang, S., and Gan, C. (1989). A clinical study on the treatment of acute upper digestive tract hemorrhage with wen-she decoction. Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih. Vol. 9. Pp. 260-273.

Huang, Y., Hsu, N., Lu, K., Lin, Y., Lin, S., Lu, Y., Liu, W., Chen, M., and Sheen, L. (2020). Poria cocos water extract ameliorates the behavioral deficits induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress in rats by down-regulating inflammation. J Ethnopharmacol. Vol. 258. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112566

Li, X., He, Y., Zeng, P., Liu, Y., Zhang, M., Hao, C., Wang, H., Lv, Z., & Zhang, L. (2019). Molecular basis for Poria cocos mushroom polysaccharide used as an antitumour drug in China. Journal of cellular and molecular medicine. Vol. 23(1). Pp. 4–20. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/jcmm.13564

Lin, Z., Gu, J., Xiu, J., Mi, T., Dong, J., and Tiwari, J. K. (2012). Traditional chinese medicine for senile dementia. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 21808655. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/692621

Sun Y, Liu Z, Pi Z, Song F, Wu J, and Liu S. (2021). Poria cocos could ameliorate cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice by restoring imbalance of Aβ production and clearance and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Phytother Res. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7014

Sun, Y. (2014). Biological activities and potential health benefits of polysaccharides from Poria cocos and their derivatives. Int J Biol Macromol. Vol. 68. Pp. 131-4. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2014.04.010

Wu, F., Li, S., Dong, C., Dai, Y., and Papp, V. (2020). The Genus Pachyma (Syn. Wolfiporia): Reinstated and Species Clarification of the Cultivated Medicinal Mushroom “Fuling” in China. Frontiers in Microbiology. Vol. 11. DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.590788

Nootropics Library

The Nootropics Library: Panax Ginseng

29 Sep 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Everything You Need to Know About Panax Ginseng

General Information

Scientific Name: Panax Ginseng

Any Other Names: Chinese Ginseng, Ginseng, Ren Shen (Chinese), Renshen (Chinese variant)

Primary Constituents: Acetylenic compounds, Panaxans, Sesquiterpenes, Triterpenoid saponins and Ginsenosides

Country or Region of Origin: Native to China, Eastern Russia, and North Korea

Known Uses: Cognitive Function, Memory, Simulant, Stamina, Athletic Performance, Life-Enhancing Tonic, Adaptogen, Anti-Anxiety, Aphrodisiac, Libido, Erectile Dysfunction, Menopause Tonic, and More

General History & Introduction

Panax Ginseng is one of the most popular and well-known nootropics around the world. It has a history of over 7,000 years of recorded therapeutic use (Chevallier, 2016). It has been so well-sought after that there have been wars fought over the territory controlling its cultivation (2016). Panax is exceptionally popular in Western culture as a dietary supplement. Its many active components make the herb useful for many parts of the body, as well as general wellness (Beshara, 2019). It has been called one of the most famous adaptive tonics in traditional Chinese medicine (Orr, 2014). One thing is for sure: Ginseng is arguably one of the most useful herbs in holistic practice.

Nootropic Benefits of Panax Ginseng

Cognitive Function, Memory

Panax Ginseng is popular worldwide for its ability to improve cognitive performance (Beshara, 2019). Many clinical trials have revealed the herb to offer significant improvements to cognitive performance in healthy adults. And many clinical trials have suggested the herb can improve cognitive function for Alzheimer’s patients (2019). Ginseng has been proven in recent Russian studies to improve mental activity (Balch, 2010). The plant’s proven ability to increase attention, alertness, and energy, make it an excellent cognitive nootropic (2010).

Stimulant, Stamina, Athletic Performance

Panax is frequently used by athletes for a stimulating boost, and for its stamina-promoting properties (Chevallier, 2016). It improves the body’s ability to fight fatigue and offers a well-known energy boost (2016). Panax is revered for its capability to improve chronic fatigue syndrome (Beshara, 2019). It is so impactful in terms of preventing fatigue due to its ability to bypass glycogen, and instead making use of fatty acids for energy (Balch, 2010). The herb can improve one’s ability to adapt to extreme temperatures (Chevallier, 2016). Panax’s favorable impact on sustaining respiration is also very helpful for athletes and stressful situations (Orr, 2014).

Life-Enhancing Tonic

The Chinese, as well as Western cultures, have recognized Panax Ginseng’s general capability as a life-enhancing tonic (Chevallier, 2016). The herb can stimulate circulation and regulate blood sugar fluctuations (Conkling & Wong, 2006). It has the power to moderate blood pressure (2006). It has been used for its rejuvenation and detoxifying properties (Balch, 2010). There are studies which support the idea that Panax can improve kidney function, cool fevers, and even influence and regulate digestion (Orr, 2014). Panax ginseng has been called a powerful antioxidant and a youth-preserving herb (Walker & Brown, 1998). The herb is able to stimulate and strengthen the heart, as well as regulate the central nervous system (1998).

Adaptogen, Anti-Anxiety

Panax ginseng has capability to help the body handle difficult situations (Orr, 2014). Panax helps the body adapt to stress (Chevallier, 2016). It will improve the mind’s ability to relax, eliminating both mental and emotional stresses. The herb’s reduction in common stresses can include decreased worries about hunger, fatigue, and extreme temperature (2016). As an adaptogen, Ginseng regulates and influences a lot of systems within the body (Conkling & Wong, 2006). The herb provides the body anxiety adaptation and a range of stress responses, applying them as necessary to combat the independent adverse effects of stress (Orr, 2014). Ginseng’s heavy triterpenoid saponin content is purportedly responsible for the plant’s adaptogenic properties. The active constituents also do a great job of improving mood (2014).

Aphrodisiac, Libido

Panax has been used for thousands of years as a male aphrodisiac (Chevallier, 2016). It has been said to improve general vitality and virility in men and women. It has also been used to improve libido for women going through menopause. Panax is also reportedly a great treatment for erectile dysfunction. It can even be used to improve impotence (2016). One Russian study proved Ginseng had a positive effect on sex glands, and helps men correct sexual dysfunctions (Balch, 2010).

Other Uses

Panax Ginseng has been used to resist infection and improve liver function (Chevallier, 2016). It is often taken by to improve the quality of life in cancer patients. It has been known to improve immune function (2016). In one recent study, Panax was proven to reduce the likelihood participants would catch the flu (Beshara, 2019). In higher doses, it can be used to help reduce inflammation, especially with rheumatoid arthritis (Balch, 2010). Its purported benefits for diabetes patients are likely due to the decrease of the cortisol hormone in the blood (2010).

A recent study has found Panax to have the power to regulate adrenal glands (Orr, 2014). This same research outlined its additional ability to regulate the pancreas. There are reports of the Native Americans using Ginseng to treat convulsions and palsy. They also classically used the plant to recover from general illness as well (2014). This could be considered the Native American version of Western culture’s “Chicken Noodle Soup” tonic.

Dosing and Usage Information

Although traditional Chinese preparation of Panax was normally a vegetable soup (Chevallier, 2016), this method is rarely used today. And despite there being a lot of different Panax supplements, from untreated or blanched, whole or part root, liquid or concentrate, tincture or tea, Panax is most popularly consumed in Western culture via capsule form (Balch, 2010). Typically, a Panax Ginseng dietary supplement will offer daily servings of around 400 to 2000 mg of extract. Pills and capsules are also more convenient for short-term usage.

Side Effects

Panax Ginseng is generally considered safe within established daily values. Exceeding the established daily value dosages can increase the likelihood of adverse side effects such as insomnia and high blood pressure (Chevallier, 2016). It is important to consult a physician before using Ginseng if pregnant, nursing, or using blood-thinning medication. It is suggested to avoid using Ginseng with caffeine (2016). Panax Ginseng should be limited to 6 months of use at a time, as it can have strong, hormone-like effects on the body (Beshara, 2019). Still, it is a generally accepted as safe for consumption, nontoxic adaptogen (Orr, 2014).

Other Important Information

Cultivation of Panax Ginseng requires immense skill and attention (Chevallier, 2016). Typically, the roots will only be harvested after having grown for 4 years to ensure the active constituents are strongest in content and concentration. Traditionally, the dry roots are chewed for energy boosts. The extract form of the herb is often used by women in menopause for its ability to increase sexual arousal as well as reduce hot flashes and improve mood (2016).

It is important to note that there are two primary variations (species) of Ginseng being Siberian ginseng [Eleutherococcus senticosus] and Chinese ginseng [Panax ginseng] (Orr, 2014). Both species share similar qualities and offer nearly the same benefits, however, this article is focusing on Panax ginseng. Panax ginseng is a bit rare, as it is highly endangered. For this reason it is difficult to find trustworthy vendors, as the market has been flooded with falsely labeled “Panax” ginseng products which actually contain Siberian ginseng (2014).

One finicky version of Ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, grows in forest areas of North America (Orr, 2014). This variant of the plant was well-known for its therapeutic properties throughout traditional Native American culture. In fact, it was loved by many Native American tribes including the Cherokee, Delaware, Iroquois, and Seminole. By the end of the eighteenth century, Native American priests and healers would be administering the plant for a variety of ailment s (2014). Ginseng would only grow in popularity, becoming one of the most prevalently marketed nootropic supplements of modern times.

Conclusion

Panax Ginseng is widely known for its therapeutic benefits. It has been well-revered in Chinese medicine, as well as throughout the world. It is commonly known as a general tonic in so many traditional, holistic practices for its ability to influence such versatile systems of the body (Conkling & Wong, 2006). Although it can be a bit more difficult to source high quality Panax (and even harder to cultivate it), it could easily be argued one of the most valuable natural herbs used in modern, holistic healing and nootropic stacks to date!

A Note from NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources:

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Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Conkling, W. and Wong, D. (2006). The Complete Guide to Vitamins and Supplements: The Holistic Path to Good Health. Avon Health Publishing. New York, NY. ISBN: 978-0-06-076066-3.

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7

Walker, L., and Brown, E. (1998). The Alternative Pharmacy. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, New Jersey. ISBN 0-7352-0021-1