The therapeutic and anti-inflammatory effects of ginseng in multiple sclerosis patients

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common diseases of the immune system affecting the central nervous system. The etiology of the disease is unclear, but activation of immune mechanisms against inflammation itself seems to play a role in the disease. Ginseng is one of the most popular herbal remedies in traditional medicine that can have soothing properties, promote health and prevent diseases. This study will review several reports on the effects of ginseng on MS. Ginseng is derived from a Greek word (pana kos) which means to cure all diseases. The possible route of positive effects of ginseng can be through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hemostatic and biological metabolism. Ginseng's therapeutic properties have been found in a variety of diseases, such as cardiovascular, neurological, cognitive, and autoimmune diseases. Ginseng is suggested to have preventive and therapeutic properties in MS. In this study we reviewed data by using Google Scholar, Science Direct and Pubmed as well as by searching key words: MS, Ginseng, Inflammatory factors and Oxidative stress, from 1990 to 2018.The modulating effects of ginseng on Th1 and TH17 cells activity and enhancing Treg activity as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ginseng can be used in the treatment of MS as immunological strategies.