Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng

When I said herbs are slowly taking over health and wellness, I meant it! So, this time I’m back at it, with the battle of a lifetime – Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng.

Now, more than ever, there’s a dire need to watch over your health. Life expectancy keeps reducing each day and new diseases cropping in, most of which have no cure.

Herbs, mostly adaptogens, have helped me live a healthy, stress-free life. That’s why I keep trying different ones to see which works best.

So, in the case of Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng, we’ll watch each of these champs battle it out to help you make a decision.

Ready? Ashwagandha, it’s your turn!

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, aka Withania Sommnifera, traces its root back in India. It has existed for hundreds of years (yes, hundreds!) serving humanity.

Ashwagandha is best known for its ability to relieve stress and anxiety. But that’s not all. The herb has other tons of health benefits.

Did I also mention its sweet scent and beautiful flowers? Well, you can carry one to a date. Forget about roses for a second.

Did you know? Ashwagandha’s root has a smell similar to that of a horse.

Some introduction for Ginseng won’t hurt, right?

What is Ginseng?

Ginseng traces its roots back in Asia. It’s mostly used by the Chinese as a medicinal herb.

The herb boasts over 2000 years of granting good health and better quality of life to humanity.

The herb is popular, not only in China but largely in the US, too.

Note: American and Asian Ginseng is believed to have varying compound concentrations and that means the different effects on the body. As such, according to this research, the American Ginseng is best known as a relaxing agent, while Asian Ginseng for its invigorating effect.

Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng – Health Benefits

Time to see what each of these herbs bring to the table. Check this out;

Health benefits of Ashwagandha

1.       Stress and anxiety relief

Anxiety and stress continue to take a toll on humanity today. While stress and anxiety could seem inevitable, there’s actually a way out.

Ashwagandha is mainly known as a special weapon against stress and anxiety. A 2019 research even concludes that taking Ashawagandha yields even better results than placebo.

What makes Ashwagandha good at its job, though? It targets cortisol – the stress hormone made in the adrenal glands of the brain. Ashwagandha significantly reduces its levels.

You don’t want to end up with more serious health conditions like high blood pressure – a condition linked to high cortisol levels in the brain.

Note: Apart from causing stress and the risk of high blood pressure, high cortisol levels cal also lead to fat build-up in the abdomen.

2.       Reduced blood sugar levels

A study with 6 type -2 diabetes patients is proof that taking a thirty-day dose of the herb reduces blood sugar levels.

Not a diabetic patient? Well, here’s something for you. Ashwagandha also reduces blood sugar levels in non-diabetic individuals.

3.       Increased fertility in men

Looking to spice up things in the bedroom? Here’s something for you.

Ashwagandha promises to perform its magical hands on your testosterone levels and general reproductive health.

But that’s not all. Ashwagandha will not only boost your fertility but increase blood antioxidant levels, too.

Note: This 2013 study concludes that Ashwagandha has a hand in male fertility and quality of semen.

4.       Increased muscle mass

Let’s get you some bigger muscles (to impress the ladies, or whatever you decide to do with them).

So here’s the thing – this 2012 research concluded that Ashwagandha can help build mass strength.

In the study, the healthy participants took a daily dose of 750 to 1250mg of Ashwagandha for 30 days. And consequently, the impressive results.

5.       Improved Brain Functionality

Preparing for a test? Some interviews, maybe? Then you’ll need your brain to be at its best.

For the longest time, Ashwagandha has helped boost memory. However, more research is still needed on this subject.

An 8-week study involving 50 adults taking a daily dose of 500mg of Shawagandha proved beneficial. It helped boost memory, attention, and general performance in different tasks.

Health Benefits Of Ginseng

1.       May boost immune

Are you a cancer patient undergoing chemo or surgery? Then you can’t gamble on your immune system.

A study involving 39 cancer patients undergoing surgery showed impressive results. They took a daily dose of 5400mg daily for two years.

Was it worth the hassle? Every bit of it. They demonstrated a stronger immune system and a near-zero symptom reoccurrence. I can almost see the glow on your face!

Summary: Ginseng has proven excellence in boosting immunity in cancer patients. However, we still need more studies to determine if the same is for healthy people.

2.       May improve Erectile Dysfunction

I know – the psychological torture that comes with erectile dysfunction is almost unbearable.

Ginseng has compounds that may help eliminate ad protect your blood vessels from oxidative stress. Hence restoring the normal functioning of a penis, according to this research.

Further studies show that Ginseng enhances the production of Nitric oxide. But, how does that help/ I can almost hear you ask.

Nitric oxide improves the relaxation of muscles around the penis hence increasing blood circulation.

Summary: Ginseng decreases oxidative stress in tissues, enhances blood-flow in the muscles in the penis hence eliminating symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

3.       Reduces Inflammation

One of the things that make Ginseng an excellent herb is its anti-inflammatory properties.

According to this mini-review, Ginseng helps not only in reducing inflammation but also in boosting the antioxidant properties of the cells.

4.       Boosts Energy Levels

Had a long day? fighting fatigue? Then I have the best weapon for you.

According to a review of multiple studies, Ginseng not only helps with fighting fatigue but enhancing physical activity, too. We call that hitting two birds with one stone.

Summary: To eliminate fatigue and enhance physical activity, Ginseng works to lower oxidative damage hence increased energy production.

5.       Cancer prevention and treatment

A 2016 research links Ginseng to possible cancer treatment.

Similarly, further studies indicate that taking Ginseng can give you an upper hand in preventing the chances of the following cancers;

·       Lips cancer

·       Colon cancer

·       Liver cancer

·       Lung cancer

If you are already a cancer patient undergoing treatment, Ginseng can also come in handy. According to this research, taking Ginseng can help reduce effects and enhance the effectiveness of their respective treatments.

Ashwagandha Side Effects

Ashwagandha is generally safe herb. However, some users have reported instances of;

·       Stomach upset

·       Diarrhea

·       Nausea

However, the following group shouldn’t use Ashwagandha unless under the strict watch of a healthcare provider;

·       Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers

·       High and low blood pressure patients

·       Diabetes patients

·       Stomach ulcers patients

Ginseng Side Effects

Ginseng is also generally safe. That’s why for the longest time, it’s been used a therapeutic supplement and functional food.

 However, in rare instances, users have reported the following;

·       Headaches

·       Diarrhea

·       Insomnia

·       Fluctuations of blood pressure

·       Nervousness

Caution: Women may also experience breast pains and vaginal bleeding. Be sure to talk to your doctor before settling for the supplement.

Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng: Recommended Supplements

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha gnc

This excellent supplement from gnc is my go-to Ashwagandha supplement.

This supplement is an excellent choice for stress and anxiety. Even better, Ashwagandha gnc promotes general health wellness, too.

The product is also vegetarian and has no artificial ingredients.

Recommended Dosage

The manufacturer recommends taking two capsules daily for the best results.

Pros

·       No artificial ingredients

·       Promotes general wellness

·       Its vegetarian

Con

·       Some people may find it expensive

Ginseng

Auragin Korean Ginseng

This is one of the commonly solved. That only happens to the best products in the market.

Auragin traces its roots to Asia, specifically in Korea. Its roots it’s the only ingredient in this supplement.

In case you’re wondering, the supplement doesn’t have any artificial additives. It comes inform of tablets.

Because its imported from Korea, expect it to cost a little bit higher than its counterparts.

How do I know this is a quality product? Auragin takes 6 years to be ready for harvesting.

Further, supplement undergoes the traditional method of steaming and drying. So you can be sure it’s maintained its traditional medicinal value.

Auragin also contains 8% ginsenosides naturally, using the best quality roots you can ever come across.

Pros

·       Contains no artificial ingredients

·       8% ginsenosides present naturally

·       Uses traditional herbal processing techniques

·       Minimally processed

Cons

·       Expensive compared to similar products

Note: People generally believe the Asian Ginseng is better than the American given its pure and vigorous production process and its place in Chinese medicine.

Ashwagandha and Ginseng Stack

In the mood for some cocktail? Let’s see if we can serve you some.

So, the million-dollar question is – can you use Ashwagandha and Ginseng together?

Yes, according to this review, it’s completely okay to use both herbs together. However, it’ll be even better to use Ginseng in the morning while Ashwagandha. This is partly owed to its special ability to help with quality sleep.

Both herbs are excellent adaptogens with multiple health benefits like we earlier saw. Using them together is only a chance to enjoy these benefits at once.

However, I recommend taking periodic breaks after consistent use. For instance, you can use them consistently for three weeks and take a one week break.

On the flipside, especially if you’ve never used any of the two herbs, I have a recommendation for you. how about you try each of them differently for a week? If it turns out well, then you can proceed to use both of them at once.

Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng: The Verdict

Time to answer the big question. Want to be the judge? How about I help you out with this.

So, who really wins this battle of Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng?

Let me take you back a little bit. Both Ashwagandha and Ginseng are excellent herbs, with tons of health benefits.

They both have minimal side effects that everyone can handle alone or with the help of a healthcare professional.

Regardless, go for Ashwagandha if you are looking to;

·       Relieve stress and anxiety

·       Increase muscle size

·       Boost testosterone levels

Similarly, go for Ginseng if you’re looking to;

·       Treat erectile dysfunction

·       Build a stronger immune system

·       Reduce inflammation

So, which one looks like it has the answer to your question? How about you get that and let me know in the comments!

FAQs

Is Ashwagandha better than Ginseng?

Both are adaptogens the comes with tons of health benefits including stress relief and improved brain function. However, each herb has what it’s best at, depending on your needs.

Can Ashwagandha and Ginseng be taken together?

Yes. It’s safe to take both herbs together. Here’s a chance to enjoy multiple health benefits and save on cost.

Ashwagandha Vs Ginseng – which is best for weight loss?

Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants and is known to aid weight loss. Ginseng, on the other hand, is a natural appetite suppressant. It also aids weight loss and delays fat absorption. How about you try each of them? Or better still, use them together.

Ashwagandha and Ginseng – Which is the best for stress relief?

Ashwagandha has made a name for itself when it comes to stress and anxiety relief. It works by reducing the levels of cortisol – the stress hormone, in the brain. Get yourself a bottle.

Can Ginseng help with cancer treatment?

Yes. Random studies show that Ginseng can help prevent mouth, stomach, lip, lung, colon, and liver cancers. According to this research, those who consumed Ginseng had lower chances of contracting such. Ginseng also helps reduce the side effects of cancer treatments and make them more effective.