Seven RCTs were included (n=363). Jadad scores were 1 for three RCTs, 2 for two RCTs, 3 for one RCT and 5 for one RCT.
Red ginseng was associated with a significantly better response rate (improvement of erectile function) than placebo in all erectile dysfunction patients (RR 2.40, 95% CI 1.65 to 3.51, p<0.0001; n=349) (sensitivity analyses showed similar results) and psychogenic erectile dysfunction (RR 2.05, 95% CI 1.33 to 3.16, p=0.001; n=135). All four trials that evaluated sexual function reported positive effects of red ginseng on sexual function. Three studies with available data showed that red ginseng was associated with better sexual function than placebo (SMD 0.79, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.12, p<0.00001; n=151). No statistically significant heterogeneity was indicated.