Any effect of ginseng?
 

I bought some in pill form a while ago, but I can't say I get any added energy or vitality. Is it just bogus? Anyone got any effect from using it?

I don't buy into herbal supplements myself, but I hear it gives similar effects as caffeine does.

No, not really. It's not a stimulant as such, but from my experience when used in conjunction with caffeine and other herbs/vitamins it certainly can add to an 'added energy' type feel. It is also good to improve blood circulation so would make sense that its use would aid the body in delivering the good stuff through the blood stream.

I've tried ginseng before two cups of coffee, and man did that have and effect! I can't keep my hands from shaking. Not sure if I like it though, cause my heart rate is way up even when I'm sitting here doing nothing.

It can give some energy. It also can speed up your heart rate and combined with caffiene or St John's Wort will give you that jittery/shaky effect. Also it's not so good combined with Valerian Root or Kava Kava as they are supposed to have a calming effects. I know my mother accidentally took it with Valerian and ended up with a palpatating hearts, shaking hands, and a panicy feeling. Gave her the creeps. It is supposed to improve male function too and help people who have diabetes to regulate their blood sugar levels.

Here's a medical source on the subject of Ginseng boosting energy.
http://my.webmd.com/content/article/...tselectedguid={5FE84E90-BC77-4056-A91C-9531713CA348}

Also another page about drug interactions and things to watch for. As my mother found - Ginseng can interact fairly strongly with other herbs and drugs. http://my.webmd.com/content/drugs/2/...tselectedguid={5FE84E90-BC77-4056-A91C-9531713CA348}