California Academy of Health Liquid Ginseng Extract

Our assessment

The evidence shows that while the California Academy of Health Liquid Ginseng Extract is marketed as a supplement, the available data for its listed ingredient, Calcium, does not support a role for ginseng. Our assessment is that this product is a calcium supplement, not a ginseng extract, based on the ingredient provided. You should be aware that the benefits of calcium are well-documented for bone health, but the data for this specific product's claims is incomplete [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural builder and nerve communicator. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is essential for strong bones. It also supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling, helping your muscles and nerves function properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Safety data is available for the ingredient calcium, not specifically for this product. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS] [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Data not available for the specific liquid ginseng extract formula. For calcium, start by meeting the RDA through food sources first. If you choose a supplement, be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin. You should take calcium supplements separately from these medications [NIH ODS]. Because the product label lists only "Calcium" as an ingredient, we cannot recommend it as a ginseng supplement. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide