Ginseng and heart palpitations: what to know

Palpitations are an awareness of your heartbeat. They can feel like fluttering, thumping, skipped beats or a sudden racing pulse. A ginseng product may be relevant when the sensation starts after taking it, becomes stronger after a dose, or settles after it is stopped. Products vary in strength and may contain other stimulating ingredients, so record the product name, ingredients and amount taken.

Palpitations can also occur with dehydration, low blood sugar, anxiety, an overactive thyroid, anaemia or an abnormal heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation can cause an irregular or racing heartbeat, while heart failure may cause palpitations alongside breathlessness, swelling or unusual tiredness. The symptom itself does not identify the cause.

Do not take another ginseng dose until a clinician or pharmacist has reviewed the episode. Avoid adding caffeine, nicotine, energy products or decongestants while you are having symptoms. Sit down, breathe normally and note when the sensation began, how long it lasted, whether the rhythm felt regular, and what you had taken or eaten beforehand.

Arrange a medical review if episodes recur, last longer than a brief spell, happen during activity, or begin after starting a medicine or supplement. Bring the container or a clear photograph of its label. A clinician may check your pulse and blood pressure, review medicines, and decide whether an ECG or blood tests are appropriate.

Seek emergency help now if palpitations come with chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, collapse, confusion, or marked dizziness. Get urgent assessment for a very fast or clearly irregular heartbeat that does not settle, especially if you have known heart disease or are pregnant. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unwell.

Ask whether ginseng is suitable with your medicines and health conditions, whether another ingredient could be responsible, and whether you should avoid the product in future. Mention diabetes treatment, blood-thinning medicines, thyroid problems, previous rhythm problems, and any history of iron-deficiency anaemia.