Cat & Dog - Ginseng

What is ginseng?

There are three different herbs commonly called ginseng: Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Siberian 'ginseng' (Eleutherococcus senticosus). The latter herb is actually not ginseng at all, but the Russian scientists responsible for promoting it believe that it functions in a similar way. 'White' ginseng root (unprocessed) is sometimes bleached and then dried, while 'red' ginseng is prepared from white ginseng by various processing methods, such as steaming the fresh root before drying.

There are many types and grades of ginseng, depending on the origin, root maturity, parts of the root used, and methods of raw material preparation or processing. Korean ginseng has the most clinical potential and is the focus of this discussion.

Why recommend administration of ginseng to my pet?

In Chinese medicine, Korean ginseng is used as a Qi tonic to boost vitality. Likewise, ginseng is used for the same purposes by vets, often as a component of a larger herbal formula. Some practitioners use ginseng in any weakened pet, to build resistance, reduce susceptibility to illness, reduce the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction (senile disorders) and promote health and longevity. There are some more specific actions, however, of Korean ginseng that can guide its use. For example, one of the most recent laboratory studies demonstrated that Korean ginseng reduces liver cell damage and minimises fibrosis (scarring) during liver repair.

One of the most important uses of ginseng in Chinese medicine is in injectable form as a component of a formula to treat hypovolemic shock (shock caused from decreased volume of blood). Ginseng does, indeed, enhance heart function, by:

• Increasing blood flow to heart muscle
• Reducing heart muscle damage during infarctions (heart attacks)
• Reducing certain rhythm disturbances enhancing circulation

A general effect of so-called Qi tonics in Chinese medicine is the lowering of fasting blood glucose (sugar), making ginseng worth considering as an adjunct to the management of diabetes mellitus.

Probably the most profound hormonal effect of ginseng, however, is its effect on the adrenal gland, making it of tremendous relevance in the management of refractory Addison's disease. Regarding the stimulation of adrenal function, ginseng helps one adapt to external stressors by:

• Increasing cortisol (stress hormone) release in acute stress
• Reducing cortisol release in chronic stress
• Heightening alertness at rest

With a heightened sense of alertness comes improved cognitive (mental) function. A placebo controlled study of 20 healthy volunteer humans showed that ginseng significantly enhanced short term memory. Similarly, in a study in geriatric dogs, ginseng showed a benefit in improving mental performance and reducing the signs of senility.

Together with liquorice root extract, Korean ginseng is arguably the most powerful adrenal gland stimulant in existence. Liquorice root stimulates both parts of the adrenal gland and increases the duration of the adrenal hormone effects. Thus ginseng and liquorice root are routinely effective in the management of refractory hypoadrenocorticism, or Addison's disease.

How much experience is there with the use of ginseng in pets?

As is true with many herbs, ginseng has been used for many years by veterinary herbalists. There are two studies involving dogs, one crossover study showing a benefit for cognitive dysfunction, the other controlled study showing improved liver regeneration in dogs that underwent liver surgery.

What species of animals are being treated regularly with ginseng?

Ginseng is commonly prescribed to dogs and cats. It may be of particular benefit in the management of Addison's disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, chronic low grade hepatitis and cognitive dysfunction in dogs and cats. It can be used to minimise stress in any animal.

How safe is ginseng?

There are some rare reported side effects associated with ginseng, but based on traditional herbal lore, the herb is considered safe. It should be used with caution in animals with: hypertension (high blood pressure), bleeding disorders, hyperexcitability, acute infections, high fevers and patients treated with insulin.

Veterinary advice should be sought when using ginseng long term.

Where do I obtain ginseng and do I need a prescription?

You do not need a prescription to buy ginseng. Please speak to one of the vets if you would like to discuss its use in your animal. We would be happy to advise.