When Cancer Drains Energy, Ginseng Can Pump It Up

Cancer is an enervating condition. People with this dread disease can find it difficult to perform even simple, daily tasks.

But researchers believe the problem may be fixed by an herb with a long tradition of use for personal energy.

A Mayo Clinic study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting demonstrates that a daily dose of ginseng gives those suffering from cancer enough pep to revive personal activities. After eight weeks of 2 grams of ginseng daily, 20 percent of their fatigue faded.

“After eight weeks, we saw a 20-point improvement in fatigue in cancer patients, measured on a 100-point, standardized fatigue scale,” says researcher Dr. Debra Barton.