Let’s start with the obvious- life is stressful. From jam-packed schedules, to never ending to-do lists, we demand a lot from our mind and body every day. Through all the busyness though- many of us forget to devote time to managing our stress. Fortunately, there are easy ways to help keep your body resilient to the demands of life. While tweaking your diet, sleeping and exercising are all great ways to keep stress in-check, adding adaptogens like fermented ginseng may also help your body maintain a healthy level of resilience.*
Read on to learn how fermented ginseng can help with managing stress.
First, what is fermented ginseng?
Ginseng is an adaptogenic root native to Asia and North America. It’s been long used in traditional remedies to promote energy, mood, immunity and more.1 Though there are many different types and species of ginseng, not all are created equal. The most hailed to boost wellness are: Asian (Korean) ginseng aka Panax ginseng and American ginseng aka Panax quinquefolius.
And while the super root itself offers a series of health benefits; the fermented form of ginseng offers an added bonus! The yeast in fermented ginseng makes it easier for your body to break down and absorb its nutrients – so you’re able to reap the most benefits.
How does fermented ginseng work when you’re stressed?
Ginseng is rich in antioxidants to help ward off free radicals (substances that can cause harm when they start to build up) and reduce stress-related symptoms like fatigue, poor mood and brain fog.* While both types of ginseng are beneficial, Asian ginseng is believed to be more stimulating compared to the milder effect of American ginseng by oxygenating your body to boost circulation and support your mood and energy.*
But what makes Asian and American ginseng the most praised for wellness? Well, the Panax species have a unique compound called ginsenosides. This compound is what gives Panax ginseng its stress easing effects.
How it works is a little complex. In fact, researchers are still trying to nail down the exact science of it. But here’s what they have so far: it’s believed to help balance the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in your brain when stressed.2
It works like this: Your HPA axis controls the production of hormones like cortisol, your main stress hormone. While cortisol is beneficial in healthy amounts (it plays a vital role in the process of learning, memory and mood), an excess amount of cortisol can cause a host of unwanted symptoms like fatigue, poor mood, sugar cravings and more. Ginsenosides are thought to help keep your HPA axis in check to ensure cortisol isn’t being over produced.
Note: Not all ginsengs have ginsenosides, Siberian ginseng, which is another common species, does not include ginsenosides so won’t provide the same effect.
Takeaway
Ginseng offers a myriad of health benefits, especially when you’re feeling weighed down from everyday stressors. Fermented Asian ginseng or Panax ginseng in particular is well absorbed and can best support your body both physically and mentally* due to its unique compound: ginsenosides.
What activities help relieve stress? Read How does yoga help relieve stress?
About Agnes
Agnes is an accredited nutritionist by SNDA (Singapore Nutrition & Dietetics Association). Before Persona, she worked in community settings, providing training and managing events. She loves working with people and is passionate about changing people’s lives through nutrition.
Do you have questions about supplements? Reach out to one of our experts, or take Persona’s free nutrition assessment, and learn exactly what you need to take your wellness to the next level.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.
