Ginseng
Latin Name: Panax ginseng
Alternate Names: Panax, Pannag, Jin-chen, Xi Yang Shen, American Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng, Korean Ginseng
Family: ARALIACEAE
Parts Used: Root.
Properties: Adaptogen, Aphrodisiac, Chi Tonic, Digestive Tonic, Hypoglycemic, Immune Stimulant, Rejuvenative, Restorative, Stimulant, Tonic.
Internal Uses: Adrenal Deficiency, AIDS, Athletic Endurance, Chemotherapy Nausea, Diabetes, Drug Addiction, Fatigue, Forgetfulness, Immune Weakness, Impotence, Infertility, Low Sperm-count, Menopause, Postoperative Recovery, Radiation Exposure, Stress, Tuberculosis
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.
Ginseng helps the body better utilize oxygen and spares glycogen utilization. It speeds up recovery time for those convalescing. It helps the adrenal glands to better conserve their stores of vitamin C and aids in the production of RNA as well as red and white blood cells. Ginseng also aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
It can help improve both physical energy and mental alertness and is a benefit when doing strenuous work, driving long distances and taking exams. Studies on the elderly using Ginseng have demonstrated improvements in reaction times and concentration. It is also used to enhance meditation.
Topical Uses: Wrinkles
Topical Applications: Used in anti-wrinkle facial products.
Culinary uses: Roots are cooked into soups, grain. Ginseng is also added to candies, soda and liqueurs.
Energetics: Sweet, Bitter, Cool.
Chemical Constituents: Ginsenosides, triterpene glycosides germanium, B vitamins, phosphorus, manganese, acetylcholine.
Contraindications: Avoid use during times of inflammation, such as fever or flu, or if constipated. Do not give to children for prolonged periods as it may cause early sexual maturation. May cause insomnia if taken at night.
Comments: The word, ginseng, means ‘essence of the earth in the form of a man’ due to the human-like shape of some ginseng roots. The genus name, Panax, is derived from the Greek panakos, meaning ‘panacea’, after the Greek godess who heals all.
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is closely related to Chinese or Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng). American Ginseng is more appropriate for hot weather conditions as its energy is more cooling (although both are sweet and slightly bitter). Asian Ginsengs can be used during the colder seasons, as they have a more warming nature.
Don’t complain about the high cost of Ginseng. It is not a quick cash crop, and roots must grow five to seven years before harvest. American Ginseng has been listed by United Plant Savers as an ‘at risk’ plant, so please avoid buying products harvested from the wild. Only use the cultivated herb.
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