Ginseng, the Wonder of the World

Asian ginseng, or Panax ginseng is one of several true ginsengs. It is native to China,and Korea. It has been used both as a medicinal herb and as a tonic herb for several thousand years. It has been highly prized by herbalists and described as the Wonder of the World.

The botanical name, Panax ginseng, comes from the same root that gives us the word panacea, meaning cure all. It was given this name because the traditional uses of the herb seemed to indicate that it was good for practically anything. An ancient Chinese text claimed among the many uses of ginseng that it repairs the five organs, nourishes and strengthens the body, harmonises the spirit, removes toxic substances, brightens the eyes, prevents fear, opens the heart, improves thought and benefits the understanding, invigorates the body and prolongs life.

Ginseng was also called the door to spirituallity, and the life root. The Chinese character for ginseng is said to describe the crystallisation of earth energy in the form of a man (the most highly prized ginseng roots resemble the human form.).

Ginseng has long been used as a longevity tonic. Some texts claim that regular use of ginseng will add at least ten years to the user's lifespan.

Ginseng Is A Qi Tonic

Using Ginseng

This is basically a ceramic pot designed to work as the top of a double boiler; it is non-metallic as metal was thought to reduce the effectiveness of ginseng. The ginseng root was prepared with the ginseng cooker because actually boiling the root may result in a loss of some of its valuable properties. Ginseng cookers are readily available, especially if you live in an area with a nearby Chinatown. I live near Philadelphia, PA; there are many grocery and gift shops in Philadelphia's Chinatown that sell ginseng cookers. (A recent search at google turned up more than 600 references to "ginseng cookers", for those who may not have easy access to a Chinese or Asian grocery.)

If you prefer getting your ginseng without so much effort, there are many options. Standardized extracts, freeze-dried powders, capsules, and instant teas are just a few of the possibilities. If you choose to go this route, follow the manufacturer's directions.

It takes time for the full effect of this herb to be felt; this is true of many of the tonic herbs. If you want to use tonic herbs to make positive changes in your life, remember the old proverb "Patience is a virtue."

Some herbalists recommend taking ginseng daily for six consecutive weeks, twice a year, to get the most benefit.

Different Ginsengs

There is Panax ginseng, also called Asian ginseng, American Ginseng, Siberian ginseng, Tienchi ginseng, and Prince ginseng.

Asian and American ginsengs are closely related botanically, and may even cross pollinate.

The effects of these two herbs are so similar that some references treat them as identical herbs.

The root of Prince ginseng looks like a miniature of a Panax ginseng root, and it is considered to be a milder version of ginseng.

Tienchi ginseng, also called pseudoginseng, or notoginseng, is also biologically similar to Panax ginseng. It is esteemed very highly as a tonic, especially for the blood and circulatory system.

Siberian ginseng is not a true ginseng, but it is an excellent tonic and adaptogen. It was researched heavily in the old Soviet Union, and used widely as a tonic for athletes, cosmonauts, and the elderly.