Cognitive Benefits of Ginseng: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Changes in Mini-Mental State Examination and Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale Scores.

Background: Despite the potential cognitive benefits of ginseng, evidence of its effects on cognitive function remains limited. We aimed to evaluate the association between ginseng and cognitive function in individuals with cognitive or memory impairment including those with subjective memory impairment, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease through a systematic review and meta-analysis of recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods: We searched six databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Korean Studies Information Service System (KISS), Research Information Sharing Service (RISS), and ScienceON, for RCTs investigating the effects of ginseng on cognitive function up to April 26, 2024. Two independent researchers assessed the methodological quality and risk of bias of the extracted studies. Data were presented as the mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI), and a subgroup analysis was performed based on ginseng dosage.

Results: Eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results suggested that ginseng may have a potential effect on cognitive improvement. Ginseng consumption showed a significant effect on increasing Mini-Mental State Examination scores (MD = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.03, 1.32; p = 0.04; I2 = 66%). For Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale, a significant reduction in scores was observed in both the total (MD = -1.10; 95% CI: -1.82, -0.38; p = 0.003; I2 = 0%) and low-dose groups (MD = -1.09; 95% CI: -1.96, -0.22; p = 0.01; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion: Ginseng consumption was found to be beneficial for changes in certain cognitive function-related indicators. However, further research is required to determine the long-term effects of ginseng based on dosage.