Korean ginseng has traditionally been used to improve male sexual function and fertility. Animal studies have also shown that Korean red ginseng (KRG) has a relaxing effect on the clitoral cavernosal muscle and vaginal smooth muscle, but this has not been examined in women. This study assessed whether KRG extract would improve sexual function in menopausal women. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover clinical study, 32 menopausal women received 3g ginseng per day or placebo for 8 weeks. After a 2-week wash out period, participants were crossed over to the other arm. Outcome measures were the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ). Korean Red Ginseng significantly improved scores for sexual arousal (P = 0.006) on FSFI, and global symptoms on GAQ (P = 0.046) compared to placebo. There were no severe adverse events, but there were two cases of vaginal bleeding that occurred during KRG treatment. Korean ginseng might be used to improve sexual function in menopausal women. (J Sex Med. 2010 Apr;7(4 Pt 1):1469-77.) PMID: 20141583
