A multisite, randomized, double-blind trial evaluating the fatigue-ameliorating properties of American ginseng in cancer patients and recent survivors has found the herb to be helpful in reducing some aspects of cancer-related fatigue (CRF), with the benefit strongest among patients currently in treatment.
Encouraging results from two earlier pilot studies of Asian and American ginseng, respectively, suggested that the herb has the potential to help alleviate CRF, which is one of the most prevalent and activity-restricting symptoms patients and survivors face. Preclinical studies also have shown both a link between CRF and inflammation, as well as anti-inflammatory properties associated with ginseng.
Overall, the researchers reported that more patients responded positively to the ginseng intervention and demonstrated a strong clinical benefit equivalent to a ≥30% improvement compared with those on placebo, a finding that suggests a need for additional research on the herb’s efficacy in ameliorating CRF, as well as work toward a safe, standardized, accessible ginseng product, which is currently not subject to FDA regulation.
For more details see https://www.onclive.com/view/ginseng-improves-cancer-related-fatigue-in-phase-iii-trial.
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