Vitality News Health Articles

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

A basic question is a good place to start.

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

–How can ginseng help me?

To those in the field of alternative medicine, it is well-known that ginseng is beneficial to a person’s health. Nevertheless, proving these claims scientifically has been difficult. 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. Due to this fact, many people take a ginseng supplement to help their overall health.

–So, what are the different kinds of ginseng?

Different kinds of ginseng cure different kinds of health problems. Some forms of ginseng have anti-cancer effects in the body. The most common kinds of ginseng you may hear about include Chinese and Korean Ginseng, Panax Ginseng, Aralia, Schefflera, Tropical Snowflake Ginseng and even Wild Ginseng. Each one has unique features and healing properties.

Panax Ginseng is also known as Korean Ginseng. This deciduous plant is a perennial with roots that are cultivated for 4-6 years in order to reach the age of maturity. Ginseng Panax is the most well-known type of ginseng. This is commonly used as an anti-aging herb by most of the Korean and Chinese countries. Panax Ginseng is a popular herb today because it has fewer side effects and no toxic effects.

You may have also heard of Wild Ginseng. It is not planted or cultivated domestically but can be found almost anywhere since it grows naturally. Nevertheless, Wild Ginseng is not as readily available as it once was as it is already becoming endangered.

I know there are different kinds of ginseng, but is one form better 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 provide more reliable effects than the other formulations. Here’s a great post on the effects of ginseng showing the differences between Siberian and Panax 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 your pharmacist recommends. Types of ginseng typically will range from $10 to $100 or more.

Very few ginseng roots sell 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. Other than demand, the manner of cultivation also affects the price of ginseng.

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

Personal preference and lifestyle are really the key factors here. Here are some things to consider. For ginseng capsules, plan to take your dose an hour before bedtime. Some people enjoy sipping tea. Tea is another good alternative. However, one should never take all the forms like tablets, teas and tinctures at the same time. It may cause an overdose of ginseng.

–Is it best to take ginseng with food?

Ginseng uses and intake may vary for different countries and cultures. It is interesting to note that no specific restrictions have been placed on ginseng in terms of food, beverages or any other specific activity a person can do while taking any form of ginseng. Even so, it is a good idea to involve your health care provider in your combination of any kind of medicines and herbal remedies.

–What are the best practices for storing ginseng?

Most ginseng will have storage directions on the package. Generally, ginseng should be protected from too much light and moisture in order to preserve its effectiveness. So, store in in a dark, dry place.

Find out more about Glenda Fiddler at her Ginseng Blog. Get more information on ginseng at GinsengFAQ.com.

- Glenda Fiddler