Supporting the HPA Axis with Ginseng
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a significant role in regulating hormones including triggering the release of the “stress hormone” cortisol. It is well-known that dysregulated secretion of cortisol is correlated with a number of concerns directly related to HPA axis dysfunction including fatigue. Supporting HPA axis homeostasis remains a key clinical goal for many patients, especially those who are having difficulty coping with occasional stress.
Ginsengs are a group of adaptogenic herbs shown to support healthy cortisol balance. One definition of an adaptogen is that they are “natural metabolic regulators that increase the ability of an organism to adapt to environmental factors and to avoid damage from such factors.” There are a variety of external environmental factors out of the patient’s control, and even in the patient’s control, that can be supported by adaptogenic herbs such as ginseng.
Different types of ginseng are found across the world, and have been used for over 2000 years to support energy and “vitality.” In total, at least 13 species of ginseng are classified under the name ‘Panax.’ The word Panax comes from the Greek word ‘panakeia,’ which means ‘all healing.’ Many use the term ‘Asian ginseng’ to refer to all ginseng originating from Asia (Panax ginseng, Panax japonicus, Panax notoginseng and Panax sinensis). The most widely studied and commonly used forms of ginseng in clinical practice are Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng) and American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Many studies have shown that ginseng supports physiological changes that help the body adapt to adverse conditions, including occasional physical, mental and emotional stress.
Helping modulate stress mediators like cortisol is only one mechanism of action for adaptogenic herbs like ginseng. For example, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Foods demonstrated that Korean ginseng not only helped reduce circulating cortisol, it also helped reduce HPA responses to physical stress. The researchers speculate that this result may be in part due to increased antioxidant expression.
The ginsenosides found in ginseng actually have a variety of effects in the body. A 2017 review published in the Journal of Ginseng Research reported that the effects of ginsenosides can be subdivided into about 100 different categories, illustrating the many diverse ways in which ginseng can support health. In that review, the researchers conclude that “when a person faces a stressful environment, ginseng can improve their response by regulating the function of the HPA axis.”
Fatigue and inability to focus are common symptoms of HPA axis dysfunction. Ginsengs may be very helpful for supporting:• Mental and physical energy• Resilience during stress• Mindful focus and concentration• Stamina and endurance• Healthy cortisol, serotonin, and GABA levels
Patients with fatigue who need extra support of the HPA axis may benefit from ginseng. Ginseng is often combined with other adaptogenic herbs to provide comprehensive support to patients.