Ginseng in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot studyOriginal paper
Karen Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease, four years before the first published case study.
Read MoreWhat was studied?
The efficacy and safety of Panax ginseng for fatigue and quality of life in multiple sclerosis.
Who was studied?
Sixty female MS patients randomized double-blind to 250 mg ginseng or placebo twice daily for three months; 52 (86 percent) completed the trial.
What were the key findings?
Ginseng improved fatigue on the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (p = 0.046) and quality of life on the MSQOL-54 (p less than or equal to 0.0001) versus placebo, with good tolerance and no serious adverse events.
What are the implications?
Ginseng is a promising, well-tolerated candidate for relieving MS-related fatigue, though larger confirmatory trials are needed.