This 2022 research paper by Yang et al (thread here) found that there is not enough data of sufficient quality to warrant any conclusions:
I've done my own study, N=1. Ginseng, 3 different types if memory serves, provides no non transitory benefits.
Any use of a stimulant with ME should be treated with caution, given the risk of it taking people’s activity levels over their individual thresholds for triggering PEM and because of the possibility of sustained use encouraging sustained over exertion with consequent deterioration in the underlying condition. I would want to see long term follow up perhaps over several years before deciding whether more than occasional use for specific one off activities was safe.
I don't need supplements that enhance/boost stamina and endurance when I have a 'energy limit' deficit. It doesn’t improve oxygen use or aerobic performance, or influence how quickly you bounce back after exercising.
These are the two studies included in the review by Yang et al mentioned above. We have a thread on another fairly recent study, this on Korean red ginseng, which it claims has a higher content of 'anti-fatigue substance'. Efficacy of Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) for middle-aged and moderate level of chronic fatigue patients, 2019, Sung et al. It was a randomised double blind trial, presumably excluded from the Yang review due to it being applied to chronic fatigue, defined as fatigue for longer than 6 months. Fatigue declined significantly in both the treated patients and the controls, but there was no difference between the treated patients and controls.
An Open-Label, Pilot Trial of HRG80™ Red Ginseng in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Post-Viral Fatigue, 2021, Teitelbaum and Goudie This recent study found great results for a special type of trademarked ginseng with "high levels of rare ginsenosides". But, it was open label with subjective outcomes, so completely worthless (scientifically, but of great value for marketing).
