A KEY component of Traditional Chinese medicine, Ginseng has been used to treat everything from stress to cancer.
Ginseng is a natural herb that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. “Ginseng” refers to both American (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), which share many of the same chemical properties.
Both types of ginseng contain ginsenosides, which researchers believe to be the active ingredient that make it beneficial to the health. Often referred to as an “adaptogen,” ginseng extracts are thought to help the body deal with mental or physical stress.
Where it’s found
Asian ginseng is found mostly in the northern hemisphere, in North America and in eastern Asia. It is a light tan, gnarled root with stringy shoots. The root is most often used in dried form, and its leaf (although not as highly valued), is sometimes also used medicinally.
How it can benefit you
Asian ginseng is believed to boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infection and disease. As a strong antioxidant, it can help rid the body of free radicals, which damage DNA and can sometimes contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
Other conditions ginseng has been used to treat include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Fertility/erectile dysfunction
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Menopausal symptoms
- Blood sugar control
Naturopath Mim Beim says:
“There are five different types of Ginseng but they all have a role in improving energy and supporting the body through stress.”