Korean Red Ginseng Enhances Quality of Life in Chronic Tinnitus
According to a new study published in September 2015, Korean red ginseng (KRG) improves quality of life in individuals with chronic tinnitus. Approximately one-third of all adults report tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, at some point in their lives and 10% to 15% have prolonged tinnitus requiring medical evaluation.
Researchers randomly assigned 61 subjects with chronic tinnitus to receive 1) 160 mg per day Ginkgo biloba extract, 2) 1,500 mg per day KRG, or 3) 3,000 mg per day KRG for four weeks. The investigators evaluated response to treatment using the tinnitus handicap inventory, Visual Analogue Scale, and Short Form-36 Health Survey questionnaire.
The participants in the 3,000 mg per day KRG group had significant improvement in the tinnitus handicap inventory score. Additionally, the 3,000 mg per day KRG group experienced a significant improvement in emotional and mental health scores in the Short Form-36 Health Survey questionnaire.
The researchers concluded, “These results suggest that KRG may improve tinnitus symptoms and mental well-being in chronic tinnitus patients.”
Reference:
Kim TS, et al. J Audiol Otol. 2015;19:85-90.
