What is the side effect of ginseng tea?

December 21, 2025 •

4 min read

While many people enjoy ginseng tea for its potential health benefits, trouble sleeping is one of the most commonly reported side effects. The ginseng root contains active compounds that can influence the body in various ways, and understanding the potential risks is crucial for safe consumption.

Quick Summary

Potential side effects of ginseng tea include insomnia, nervousness, blood pressure changes, and digestive issues. It is not recommended for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications.

Key Points

Insomnia is a primary concern: The most frequent side effect of ginseng tea is trouble sleeping, especially if consumed later in the day due to its stimulating properties.
Blood pressure can fluctuate: Ginseng can either raise or lower blood pressure, and its effects are unpredictable, making it risky for those with existing cardiovascular issues.
Medication interactions are significant: Ginseng can interfere with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and antidepressants, among others, potentially leading to dangerous health complications.
Hormonal effects are possible: Some individuals, particularly women, may experience breast tenderness, vaginal bleeding, or changes in their menstrual cycle due to ginseng's estrogen-like compounds.
Consult a doctor before use: Due to the wide range of potential side effects and drug interactions, it is essential to talk to a healthcare provider before starting a ginseng tea regimen.
High dose or long-term use increases risk: Adverse effects are more likely to occur with large doses or with extended consumption over many months.

Common Side Effects of Ginseng Tea

Although often well-tolerated in moderate amounts, ginseng tea can cause a range of side effects, which may vary depending on the type of ginseng and the individual's sensitivity. Some effects are mild and common, while others are rarer or more serious and tend to be associated with high doses or prolonged use.

Nervous System Effects

One of the most widely reported side effects of ginseng is its stimulating effect on the nervous system. This can lead to:

Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping is the most common side effect, particularly when ginseng is consumed near bedtime.
Nervousness and Agitation: Feelings of excitability, restlessness, or agitation can occur, especially when first starting to use ginseng.
Headaches and Dizziness: Some users experience headaches or feelings of dizziness.

Cardiovascular and Blood-Related Side Effects

Ginseng's effects on the cardiovascular system are complex and can vary. It's known to interact with blood pressure and clotting functions.

Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Ginseng can cause either an increase or a decrease in blood pressure, though its effect is variable depending on the individual. People with pre-existing blood pressure conditions should be cautious and monitor their levels closely.
Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): Some individuals report an increased heart rate or heart palpitations.
Bleeding Risk: Ginseng may slow blood clotting. This effect can be particularly dangerous when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.

Digestive and Gastrointestinal Issues

Digestive problems are another group of side effects that can occur, often with higher doses.

Upset Stomach and Diarrhea: Some users experience gastrointestinal discomfort, upset stomach, or diarrhea.
Loss of Appetite: In some cases, a decreased appetite can be a side effect.

Hormonal and Reproductive Effects

Due to its potential estrogen-like effects, ginseng can impact hormonal balance in some people.

Menstrual Changes: Women may experience menstrual problems, such as unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting.
Breast Tenderness: Breast pain or tenderness has also been reported as a side effect.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited safety data and potential hormonal effects.

Allergic Reactions and Other Risks

While rare, severe reactions are possible. Allergic responses can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Skin Rashes: Mild skin irritation or rashes can occur in some individuals.
Anaphylaxis: In very rare cases, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur, marked by difficulty breathing, facial swelling, and a rapid heartbeat.
Liver Toxicity: Although uncommon, interactions with certain medications (like imatinib) have been linked to liver toxicity.

Potential Drug Interactions with Ginseng Tea

It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before consuming ginseng tea, especially if you are taking any medications. Ginseng can have significant interactions with several types of drugs.

Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets: Ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with medications such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or clopidogrel (Plavix).
Diabetes Medications: Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels. Combining it with insulin or other antidiabetic drugs could cause blood sugar to drop too low (hypoglycemia).
Stimulants: Panax ginseng and stimulants like caffeine can both speed up the nervous system. Combining them can increase the risk of side effects such as jitteriness, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure.
Antidepressants (MAOIs): Taking ginseng with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) can increase the risk of side effects such as headaches, restlessness, and insomnia.
Blood Pressure Medications: The variable effect of ginseng on blood pressure can interfere with the effectiveness of medications intended to control high or low blood pressure, such as calcium channel blockers or diuretics.
Immunosuppressants: Ginseng can increase the activity of the immune system, potentially interfering with the effects of immunosuppressant drugs taken after an organ transplant.

Ginseng Varieties and Side Effects Comparison

The different types of ginseng can produce slightly different side effects. The distinction is most pronounced between Panax (Asian) and American ginseng.


Feature	Panax (Asian) Ginseng	American Ginseng	Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero)
Common Side Effects	Insomnia, nervousness, agitation, excitability.	Fewer side effects reported; may cause insomnia in high doses.	May cause drowsiness, nervousness, or mood changes.
Effect on Blood Pressure	Can increase blood pressure, especially with stimulants.	May have a neutral or moderate effect; potential to lower it.	Can raise or lower blood sugar levels.
Safety Period	Up to 3 months of use recommended.	Use has been reported for up to 1-4 months.	Up to 2 months of use recommended.
Key Caution	Increased risk of agitation, hormone-like effects.	Potential for insomnia if dosage is too high.	Name can be misleading as it is not true ginseng; different active compounds.

Conclusion: Navigating the Side Effects of Ginseng Tea

While ginseng tea is a popular herbal remedy with many purported benefits, understanding its potential side effects is essential for safe consumption. The most common issues include sleep disturbances and nervous system stimulation, especially with Panax ginseng. However, more serious side effects involving blood pressure, bleeding, and allergic reactions, though rarer, can occur, particularly with long-term use or high doses.

Crucially, ginseng can interfere with numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications, including those for diabetes, heart conditions, and blood thinners. Before adding ginseng tea to your routine, it is highly recommended to speak with a healthcare provider, especially if you have an existing medical condition or are on medication. By being mindful of these risks and consulting a professional, you can make an informed decision about whether ginseng tea is right for you.

Learn more about potential drug interactions on WebMD's detailed page on ginseng interaction information: Ginseng Tea Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions....

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, insomnia or trouble sleeping is one of the most common side effects reported from consuming ginseng tea, especially when consumed in large quantities or too close to bedtime.

Yes, ginseng can cause changes in blood pressure, potentially increasing or decreasing it. Individuals with pre-existing blood pressure conditions should monitor their levels closely and consult a doctor.

Yes, ginseng has significant drug interactions. It can affect medications for blood thinning (warfarin), diabetes (insulin), and blood pressure, among others. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining ginseng tea with medication.

No, ginseng tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Some studies have linked a chemical in Panax ginseng to potential birth defects in animals, and safety data is limited.

While rare, ginseng tea can cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild skin rashes to a severe, life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Yes, the specific type of ginseng can influence side effects. For example, Panax (Asian) ginseng is often more stimulating, while American ginseng may cause fewer side effects but can still lead to issues like insomnia with high doses.

Long-term use (typically over a few months) or high doses of ginseng tea increase the risk of experiencing adverse effects like insomnia, hormonal changes, and blood pressure fluctuations.