Ginseng Therapy in Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetic Patients

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.org

FROM:   Diabetes Care 1995 (Oct);   18 (10):   1373–1375

Sotaniemi EA, Haapakoski E, Rautio A

Department of Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland

OBJECTIVE:   To investigate the effect of ginseng on newly diagnosed non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS:   In this double-blind placebo-controlled study, 36 NIDDM patients were treated for 8 weeks with ginseng (100 or 200 mg) or placebo. Efficacy was evaluated with psychophysical tests and measurements of glucose balance, serum lipids, aminoterminalpropeptide (PIIINP) concentration, and body weight.

RESULTS:   Ginseng therapy elevated mood, improved psychophysical performance, and reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) and body weight. The 200-mg dose of ginseng improved glycated hemoglobin, serum PIIINP, and physical activity. Placebo reduced body weight and altered the serum lipid profile but did not alter FBG.

CONCLUSIONS:   Ginseng may be a useful therapeutic adjunct in the management of NIDDM.

Return to the GINSENG Page

Since 10-01-1998