Ginseng

Panax ginseng C.A.Mey.

Cherished for centuries in traditional Eastern medicine, ginseng is a powerful herbal ally for boosting vitality, sharpening cognitive function, increasing physical stamina, and more.*

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Asian ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Ginseng, Korean ginseng, Panax ginseng (Rénshēn 人蔘 , Insam 인삼, Ninjin 人参)

Family Name Araliaceae

Parts Used Roots

Herbal Actions Adaptogen, aphrodisiac, Immunomodulator, stimulant, tonic

Health Benefits Energy, Good Mood, Immunity, Mental Focus, Performance

More Ginseng info

Ginseng’s Latin genus name, "Panax,” means “all healing.”

What are the Benefits of Panax Ginseng?

Ginseng, a prized longevity tonic in traditional eastern medicine, has been used in herbalism and in the kitchen for time immemorial. This root is beloved throughout China, Korea, Japan, and beyond and is a staple in teas, tinctures, and capsules. It’s also a key ingredient in many Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas. It’s generally added to restore energy and boost overall vitality, especially for those who are run down or feeling weak.

In modern herbalism, it's recognized as an "adaptogen" that aids the body in adapting to stress, sharpening cognitive function, increasing physical stamina, and boosting overall vitality. Ginseng also contains notable phytochemicals called ginsenosides, exclusive to the Panax genus. Research suggests these compounds play a crucial role in helping the body adapt to stress and offer neuroprotective benefits, which means it helps the body protect the central nervous system.*

In etymology, the sound gin stands for the word “man,” and seng essential means “essence.” In folklore, ginseng is seen as the essence of the earth in human form. The earliest known mention of ginseng as medicine was over 2,000 years ago in the "Shennong Bencaojing" (Divine Husbandman's Classic of Materia Medica), one of the oldest and most influential texts in Chinese medicine.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ginseng is known to have a warming effect on the body and is used to tonify Qi (vital energy). Its slightly bitter taste is believed to help clear dampness and stagnation from the body. Along with its medicinal uses, ginseng is also a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes and culinary specialties, like samgye-tang (ginseng chicken soup), insam-ju (ginseng liquor), ginseng jujube tea, ginseng stir-fry with vegetables, and more.

Ginseng’s human-shaped root is somewhat easy to identify when unprocessed in the marketplace, but when cultivated or in the wild, you can recognize it by its compound leaf structure. Typically, three to five leaflets come from a central stem, and in late summer and early fall, the plant will produce a small cluster of red berries.

Native to Asia, this prized herb is predominantly cultivated in Korea, China, and Japan, where it holds significant commercial and medicinal value. However, ginseng can be grown worldwide in suitable climates and soil conditions, especially in temperate climates with well-drained, loamy, and fertile soil. Historically, this plant has been overharvested, which is why it’s so important to cultivate it. Good things take time, and this root can take a few years to mature, which drives up the cost and the need for patience when growing it.

Products that contain Ginseng

New!

Stress Ease<sup>®</sup> Focus ginseng wild apple mint front of the box

Stress Ease® Focus Tea

Everyday Balanced Energy Support*

Quick Buy Learn More

Additional Information

Important Precautions

Not recommended for use with children under 18 years of age. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you experience headaches, nervousness, or insomnia after taking this product. Consult a healthcare practitioner before use if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or are taking medication to manage blood glucose levels. For best results, take a one-week break after 2 months of daily use.

Legal Disclaimer

The information and other content in this article are designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

Become an Herb Nerd & Get 10% Off!

Herbal tidbits, DIY plant projects, exclusive discounts, and recipes to follow the seasons delivered straight to your inbox.

More Ginseng info

Products that contain Ginseng

Stress Ease® Focus Tea

Green Tea Ginger

Green Tea Lemongrass

Green Tea Matcha

Green Tea Peppermint

Additional Information

Become an Herb Nerd & Get 10% Off!

Join our communi-tea

My Cart

You May Also Like

Throat Coat® Lemon Ginger Echinacea Lozenges