The Effect of Ginseng (Genus Panax) on Blood Pressure and Additional Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease

This two-fold project investigates the long-term effect of ginseng on blood pressure (BP) in individuals with and without type-2 diabetes. Study 1: A systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of ginseng on BP in randomized controlled trials (RCT)s. Study 2: A preliminary segment of an ongoing long-term RCT was analyzed to explore the therapeutic potential of combined American and Rg3-enriched Korean Red Ginseng extracts. Meta-analysis of 17 RCTs, demonstrated an overall neutral effect of ginseng on systolic and diastolic BP, and mean arterial pressure, although favouring SBP improvement in individuals with diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity. Trial analyses suggest improved BP, low-grade body inflammation, and glycemic control with the combined ginseng intervention, after 12 weeks, in individuals with type-2 diabetes and concomitant hypertension. This thesis contributes to the understanding of ginseng efficacy, suggesting a neutral and potentially beneficial effect on BP and other cardiovascular disease risk factors.M.Sc