Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng, steamed and dried) is one of the oldest herbal tonics in use and the most researched herb for erectile function. It is a common ingredient in male enhancement supplements, including VigRX Plus.
What the research found
Dozens of small trials, many from Korea, have tested ginseng in men with erectile dysfunction. In 2021, a Cochrane review, one of the most rigorous types of evidence summary, pooled the randomized trials. It concluded that:
- Ginseng may produce a small improvement in erectile function compared with placebo in men with mild to moderate ED
- The certainty of the evidence is low, because the trials were small, short and had methodological weaknesses
- The improvement may be too small for many men to notice
That makes ginseng one of the better-supported herbs in this category, but it is still far from the reliability of prescription treatments.
How it may work
Ginseng contains compounds called ginsenosides that, in laboratory studies, help blood vessels relax through nitric oxide pathways. This is the same general system prescription ED medications act on, though ginseng’s effect is much weaker.
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Typical doses
Studies commonly used 600–1,000 mg of Korean red ginseng, taken up to three times a day, for 8 to 12 weeks. Look for products that state the ginsenoside content.
Side effects and interactions
- Trouble sleeping, headache and digestive upset are the most common side effects
- It may lower blood sugar, which matters if you take diabetes medication
- It may interact with blood thinners, blood pressure medication and some antidepressants
- Avoid it with stimulants if you are sensitive to them
Ginseng in male enhancement products
Many sexual health supplements include ginseng alongside other herbs. The key question is the dose: a small sprinkle in a long ingredient list is unlikely to match what was studied. See how the major products compare in our male enhancement supplement comparison and our VigRX Plus review.
Does red ginseng work for ED?
A Cochrane review found it may produce a small improvement in mild to moderate ED, but the evidence is low certainty.
How long does ginseng take to work?
Trials typically ran 8 to 12 weeks with daily dosing.
Is Korean red ginseng the same as American ginseng?
No. American ginseng is a different species with different research. Most ED studies used Korean red ginseng.