The appropriate ginseng dose for any individual depends on factors such as the type of ginseng used, the ailment being treated, the dosing frequency and whether the ginseng is used in the form of a pill, loose-dried leaves or as an additive in ointments. There are three different types of ginseng: American ginseng, panax ginseng and Siberian ginseng. These species of the ginseng plant are used to treat a variety of health issues, ranging from memory loss to diabetes. Since, each variety has a different amount of ginsenosides, the chemicals responsible for ginseng’s medical potency, dosing guidelines vary for each species.
American ginseng can be used to heal respiratory infections, boost iron levels and balance blood sugar. Some people use it as an experimental treatment for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no scientific evidence, however, to support any dosage level as effective for mitigating AIDS.
An American ginseng dose of no more than 3 grams before a meal in supplement or dried form is generally sufficient to keep blood sugar from spiking. For people with breathing problems, particularly problems linked to influenza or colds, a ginseng capsule with 200 mg of the American herb can be effective if taken both in the morning and at night throughout the duration of the cold and for a few weeks thereafter. To attempt to treat memory, attention problems and iron deficiency, an American ginseng dose of 2 grams in dried form or 200 mg in extract form may be effective.
Panax ginseng, which is also called Asian ginseng, is an herb used to primarily treat erectile dysfunction and high blood sugar. Researchers recommend a panax ginseng dose of 900 mg in dried form or in capsule form two to three times a day for reversing impotence. This amount might also be enough to increase sperm count and aid in conception. Erectile ointments with panax ginseng are also sold; doctors recommend following the dose recommended on the product and applying it up to an hour before sexual intercourse. For diabetes, a ginseng dose of 200 mg in dried leaves or capsule form is encouraged.
Doses of Siberian ginseng are used to lessen stress, aid in recovery from colds, boost mental alertness and to experimentally treat infections from the herpes virus. Since the amounts of ginsenosides in Siberian ginseng vary widely depending on manufacturer, it is hard for medical experts to give guidelines. For all of these ailments, experts recommend seeking the guidance of a physician who might start patients off with a Siberian ginseng dose of 2g to 3g of fresh or dried herb, while measuring effects over time to see if more or less is needed.