Panax ginseng and Ergogenic Profile: Randomized, Placebo Controlled Study

Introduction: Ginseng is a herbal plant that is known for its therapeutic medical importance for many diseases; it acts as a tonic and provides energy with significant reduction in mental and physical fatigue.

Objectives: The aim of the present study was evaluating the ergogenic effect of Panax ginseng on normal healthy volunteers.

Subjects and Methods: Randomized selection of 35 healthy volunteers with age ranged 20-30 years, they are randomly divided into two groups for assessment of the ergogenic effects of Ginseng compared with a placebo effect. Tunturi bicycle Ergometer (for assessment of exercise tolerance) was used for evaluating the ergogenic effects before and after two weeks of treatment with Ginseng or placebo. Group A: include 10 healthy volunteers regarded as a control group that treated with 500 mg/day of starch capsule as a single dose. Group B: include 25 healthy volunteers that received Ginseng capsule 500 mg /day.

Results: Placebo produces insignificant effects following two consecutive weeks of treatment p>0.05. Ginseng showed more significant effects on the most of ergogenic parameters including pulse, time, distance and calorie consumption p <0.05, but Ginseng therapy showed insignificant effects on speed and maximal oxygen consumption (Vo2max) variables (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Ginseng leads to significant ergogenic effects on normal healthy volunteers compared to placebo.