A single cup of American ginseng tea may be enough to shield your DNA from oxidative damage in as little as two hours, according to a new pilot study.1 This intriguing finding highlights the powerful genoprotective potential of this time-honored herbal beverage.
In the study, 14 healthy individuals were randomly assigned to drink either 200 mL of freshly brewed American ginseng tea or plain water. Blood samples taken before and 2 hours after consumption were exposed to UVB radiation to induce oxidative stress. Using the comet assay, researchers assessed the degree of DNA damage.1
Remarkably, the ginseng tea group experienced a statistically significant 17% reduction in DNA damage just 2 hours post-consumption, while no change occurred in the water group. As the study authors noted, "The current study demonstrated a cup of American ginseng infusion could protect cellular DNA from oxidative stress at least within 2 h."1
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) contains a variety of antioxidant compounds like polyphenols and ginsenosides that are believed to mediate its DNA protective effects.1 Previous in vitro and animal research has shown its genoprotective properties, but this pilot trial is the first to demonstrate such rapid effects in humans.1
While further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term supplementation are needed, this preliminary data suggests drinking American ginseng tea could be a simple and effective way to boost your body's defenses against the ubiquitous threat of oxidative stress and associated diseases. So the next time you enjoy a soothing cup of this antioxidant-rich herbal infusion, know that you're likely doing your DNA a favor too.
Top 10 Other Health Benefits of American Ginseng According to GreenMedInfo.com's American Ginseng database:
1. Anti-Diabetic Effects
American ginseng shows hypoglycemic effects and improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. It also helps prevent diabetes-related complications like nephropathy.
2. Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
American ginseng acts as a potent antioxidant and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to its chemopreventive and cardioprotective benefits.
3. Radioprotective Activity
Studies show American ginseng offers protection against radiation-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress in human lymphocytes.
4. Immunomodulatory Actions
Polysaccharides from American ginseng act as immunomodulators and have potential as immunostimulatory nutraceuticals.
5. Neuroprotective Benefits
American ginseng demonstrates a neuroprotective effect in models of neurodegeneration and acute central nervous system injury. It may benefit cognitive function and memory.
6. Antimicrobial & Antiviral Activity
Extracts of American ginseng show antimicrobial effects against various bacteria and viruses, including those causing influenza and the common cold.
7. Anti-Cancer Potential
American ginseng exhibits anti-tumor and antiproliferative activity against several cancers, including colorectal, breast and prostate cancer. It may enhance chemotherapy as well.
8. Ulcerative Colitis Prevention
American ginseng helps prevent and treat ulcerative colitis in animal studies, likely through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms.
9. Cardiovascular Protection
Ginseng extract demonstrates cardioprotective effects and may help reduce cardiac hypertrophy and prevent myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.
10. Liver Protection
Pretreatment with American ginseng berry extract showed a hepatoprotective effect against acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity in animals.
In conclusion, a growing body of scientific evidence supports the traditional use of American ginseng as a multi-faceted herbal tonic with benefits for diabetes, heart health, brain function, immunity, and more. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties likely underlie many of its protective effects.
References
1. Szeto YT, Sin YS, Pak SC, Kalle W. American ginseng tea protects cellular DNA within 2 h from consumption: results of a pilot study in healthy human volunteers. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2015;66(7):815-8. doi: 10.3109/09637486.2015.1088937
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