Ginseng is one of the most famous adaptogenic herbs and has been used for thousands of years in Oriental medicine as a tonic, performance enhancer, and more recently for its usefulness in managing blood sugar levels in type II diabetes as well as lowering the risk of cancer. It is an antioxidant and, though warming, has anti-inflammatory properties. It is sometimes used alone or in combination with herbs such as Ginkgo biloba to improve memory and support energy during periods of intense study, such as during exam season.