The Ginseng Abuse Syndrome is reported to occur who take large doses of ginseng for a long period of time. Not everyone believes that the syndrome exists and that the symptoms reported have an alternative explanation.
Theories for its occurrence:
(1) toxic effects of the ginseng when taken at very high doses
(2) caffeine or other stimulants taken at the same time
(3) toxins from plants added to the ginseng by unscrupulous herb dealers or during harvest
Symptoms that have been described in people who have taken ginseng to excess:
(1) hypertension or hypotension
(2) agitation and nervousness
(3) diarrhea
(4) tachycardia
(5) insomnia
(6) dermatitis, especially on the face
(7) gynecomastia
(8) coagulopathy
These findings should improve once the intake is stopped.
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