About Ginseng - Answers to Your Basic Ginseng Questions

September 30, 2008 | By In Health |

–This may seem like a basic question, but what is ginseng?

Nothing like starting from the beginning.

a characterization of Ginseng is its medicinal properties. Having originated in the Orient, Ginseng is classified under the genus of five or six species of perennial plants that grow slowly. As part of the Araliaceae family of plants, Ginseng’s roots are fleshy. Using today’s technology, ginseng can be found in most herb and alternative medicine shops and is used to treat multiple diseases.

–What makes ginseng so great?

To those in the field of alternative medicine, it is well-known that ginseng is beneficial to a person’s health. However, it is difficult to scientifically prove these claims. So, what is it in ginseng that makes herb doctors and alternative medicine doctors speak of its medicinal properties? Ginseng is considered to be an adaptogen. Basically, what this means is that it is a product that is harmless to use while increasing the body’s resistance to stress. It is because of this that many people take a daily ginseng supplement to increase their overall health.

–I understand there are different kinds of ginseng. What are they?

Different kinds of ginseng cure different kinds of health problems. Some forms of ginseng are taken to help cure cancer. The most common kinds of ginseng include Panax Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng and Korean Ginseng. The different ginsengs contain different healing abilities.

Panax Ginseng is also known as Korean Ginseng. This deciduous perennial is a plant with roots that are cultivated for 4-6 years before the plant is ready and has reached maturity. Ginseng Panax is the most well-known type of ginseng. This is commonly used as an anti-aging herb by most of the Chinese and Korean people. Panax Ginseng is a popular herb today because it is harmless to the body and has few, if any, side effects.

Not as common as Panax Ginseng is Wild Ginseng. It is not planted or cultivated domestically but can be found almost anywhere since it grows naturally. Unfortunately, Wild Ginseng is more difficult to find now as it is already becoming endangered.

–Is one form of ginseng more effective than another?

Ginseng taken in certain forms can be more effective. Standardized extracts and solid forms of ginseng have been proven more effective. They also are proven more consistently reliable than other forms. Here’s a great post on the effects of ginseng comparing two different types - Panax Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng.

–How much should I expect to pay for ginseng?

There’s no cut and dry answer for this since prices can vary. It will depend on the kind and form of ginseng recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Types of ginseng usually range between $10 and $100 but can go higher.

There are also ginseng roots that are sold for low prices, but the highest grade will reach as high as $10,000 per root. There are other things that may effect the price. Besides the obvious demand for certain types of ginseng, the way in which it is cultivated can effect the price.

–Is it better to take ginseng in capsules, in tea or by simply chewing it?

It’s really a matter of preference. Consider the following when making a decision. For ginseng capsules, plan to take your dose an hour before bedtime. If tea is your thing, then by all means, use tea. However, it is not a good idea to take all forms, i.e. tablets, teas and tinctures at the same time. It may cause an overdose of ginseng.

–Should I take ginseng with food?

Ginseng uses and intake may vary for different countries and cultures. Furthermore, there are currently no specific restrictions that have been placed in terms of food, beverages or any other specific activity a person can do while taking any form of ginseng. Nonetheless, it is always wise to let your healther care provider know you are taking ginseng and allow him or her to direct your health care.

–How should I store ginseng?

Look on the package. Most packages of ginseng will include storage directions right on the package. In general, ginseng should be protected from too much light and moisture so that it does not lose its effectiveness. With that in mind,It’s best to store it someplace where it’s dry and dark.