Effects of Red Panax Ginseng on Thinking and Mood in Young Adults
Official title: Effects of Red Panax Ginseng Supplementation on Cognitive Performance and Emotional Well-Being in Young Healthy Adults, a Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Arizona State University · NCT07648316 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether taking red Panax ginseng daily can improve thinking skills and emotional well-being in healthy college students aged 18–30.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Arizona State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Phoenix, Arizona) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 22, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 15, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07648316 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy 18–30-year-old adults who are fluent in English and able to attend two in-person lab visits in Phoenix.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with current clinical depression, ongoing medication changes, or pregnancy, among other exclusion criteria, may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Healthy young adults will be randomly assigned to receive either red Panax ginseng or a placebo for a set period. Participants will complete cognitive tests and mood-related assessments, with two in-person lab visits to monitor effects and adherence under supervision in downtown Phoenix. The researchers will compare changes in cognitive performance and emotional well-being between the ginseng and placebo groups, while ensuring safety and limiting caffeine use before testing. The trial aims to see if ginseng can support mental acuity and stress regulation in daily life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved cognitive performance and emotional well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous small trials in stressed or moderately stressed adults suggest potential mood and cognitive benefits from ginseng, but results vary and further study is needed.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy young adults * 18-30 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * medication/drug use that has not been consistent for the previous 3 months or will be discontinued during the trial * unresolved chronic medical conditions (e.g., presence of persistent symptomology) * diagnosed clinical depression * acute illness * regular use of cigarettes or marijuana * pregnant or lactating women * not fluent in English * currently competing in sports or unusually high-intensity exercise protocols (e.g., high-intensity exercise greater than 30 minutes most days of the week) * current use of ginseng or adaptogenic supplements, or allergy to ginseng * any significant food allergies * not willing to attend two in-person lab visits in downtown Phoenix and follow study protocol (including abstaining from caffeine in the 12 hours prior to testing)
Where it's running
-
Health North ASU Downtown Campus
Phoenix, Arizona, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Carol Johnston — Arizona State University
- Study coordinator: Carol Johnston
- Email: carol.johnston@asu.edu
- Phone: 6024963463
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.