Have you ever heard about Brazilian ginseng? People use Brazilian ginseng for its energizing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Interested to learn more? In this article, we tell you everything! Happy discovery!
What is Brazilian Ginseng?
Brazilian ginseng is actually not ginseng at all. It comes from a plant whose scientific name is Hebanthe eriantha which belongs to the Amaranthaceae family.
Because of its composition, extracts from this plant are used to create natural medicines. Traditionally, the indigenous tribes of the Amazon rainforest have also used it to treat several diseases.
Specifically, it is popular for its adaptogenic properties that help the body better respond to stressful situations. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds as well as anti-tumor components, which are currently the subject of several studies.
Properties of Brazilian Ginseng
In recent years, researchers have documented the pharmacological composition of Brazilian ginseng. According to a publication in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, it contains two known substances: pfaffinic acid and saponins, both of which have anti-tumor effects.
An article published in the American Journal of Analytical Chemistry indicates that Brazilian ginseng extract contains several elements. For example, vitamins A, E and K and B vitamin complexes, trace elements such as germanium, iron, magnesium and zinc and others that strengthen immune system functions.
In addition, it contains a large number of alkaloids and polyphenols that protect the body from cell damage and reduce the risk of them suffering from diseases.
Benefits of Brazilian Ginseng
According to popular literature, Brazilian ginseng has a wide range of health benefits. But so far, only some of these properties are supported by scientific evidence. Below we explain its main uses.
Adaptogen
In natural medicine, Brazilian ginseng is classified as an adaptogen. According to an article published in the Chinese Medical Journal, adaptogens are substances that improve the body’s response to biological, chemical or physical stressors. As the name suggests, it helps the body adapt.
Specifically, it helps the body reduce inflammation and stabilize cortisol levels as well as aid immune function. All of this contributes to better health and a lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.
Adaptogens are those that help fight stress and reduce the physiological reactions associated with anxiety and stress.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory
The polyphenol and alkaloid content of Brazilian ginseng contributes to its antioxidant properties. These molecules help neutralize the negative effects of free radicals that cause cell damage and a wide range of diseases.
A publication in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine explains that the bioactive components of this root may work against inflammatory disorders and problems related to oxidative stress. However, more studies are needed to test these effects on humans.
As a Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Because of its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, many people use Brazilian ginseng to combat inflammatory bowel disease. Specifically, it is thought to improve the health of people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
An animal study published in International Immunopharmacology showed that a supplement of 200 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, more studies are needed to test these effects in humans.
Sexual Problems
Traditionally, people have used Brazilian ginseng as a natural aphrodisiac. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. An older study published in Psychopharmacology shows that Brazilian ginseng extracts increase sexual activity and ejaculation in rats.
Another study explains that agents containing Brazilian ginseng increase levels of sex hormones such as estradiol, progesterone and testosterone. These are associated with increased libido, sperm production and fertility. However, the results are not so promising that they have motivated researchers to study this effect in men.
Anti-Tumor Effect
The pffafic acid and saponin content of Brazilian ginseng is associated with an anti-tumor effect in test tubes and animal experiments. This does not mean that it is an oncological treatment, as some advertising campaigns have suggested for dietary supplements.
It is important to note that neither this root nor other medicinal plants are a cure or prevention for cancer. At this time, the results only mean that it is up to researchers to study this extract to develop future treatments for this disease. It is necessary to verify if they cause the same effects when used in patients.
There you are! You now know everything you should about the Brazilian ginseng. After reading our post, what are your views on it? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
