Korean ginseng, also known as red ginseng or panax ginseng, is a plant which has been used in Asian medicine for centuries. There are three varieties of ginseng: fresh, white or red. (The variety changes depending on how long it is grown for).
Ginseng is a leafy plant that will sometimes bloom red flowers, but it is the root that is claimed to be medicinally beneficial.
Anecdotally, the root is said to resemble the human body, with shoots for arms and legs. This is partly why it was adopted into Asian medicinal practices.
Korean red ginseng, or Asian ginseng, is the variety said to help with male impotence.
Ginseng is made up of ginsenosides, which may have potential cardiovascular benefits, that could in theory help to reduce ED.
Ginseng may also promote the release of nitric oxide, which could relax the muscles in the penis to promote erections.
The root could also impact hormone levels which, in turn, could theoretically enhance sexual stimulation and arousal.
So, what does the evidence say about red ginseng, can it help with erections? One study found that red ginseng was more favourable at treating ED than a placebo. However, the authors pointed to low sample size as a caveat of the study.
Another broader study and meta-analysis involving 2080 men found that ‘encouraging evidence suggests that ginseng may be an effective herbal treatment for ED.’
However, more research is needed on the relationship between ginseng and ED. Furthermore, what treats one case of impotence may not treat another. So, while red ginseng supplements can be bought over-the-counter at high street stores, it’s still advisable to consult with a healthcare professional first before using it.