While ginseng can be very relaxing, however, it is not the perfect herb. The risks are just as debated as the benefits are, but it is worth knowing about them before you take any ginseng so that you can be cautious if you need to be.
To start off with, there are some people who would be best to stay away from ginseng altogether: anyone with a blood-related condition (such as diabetes or high blood pressure), people with plant allergies, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and children. People with a plant allergy may find that ginseng makes them feel short of breath or swell up, and children should be kept away from ginseng because its effects on their developing bodies are not yet known. If you really want to take ginseng, it will probably be alright, but you absolutely must consult a doctor first.
The biggest controversy about the risks of ginseng surrounds a condition known as Ginseng Abuse Syndrome, discovered by a Dr. Siegel. He claims that taking too much ginseng can cause difficulty sleeping, all-over swelling and tense muscles. Ginseng producers and herbal enthusiasts hotly dispute these findings, but all the same, it is best to stick to the...