Get to Know Ginseng: It Could Change Your Life
by Debbie Wolfe, CKC Writer
My maternal grandfather drank a ginseng tonic daily. He said the tonic gave him the energy he needed for the day. As a child, I was only given a tonic when I was sick. For many years, I associated ginseng only with older people and seasonal colds. As an adult, I have learned the wondrous health benefits of ginseng.
American vs Korean Ginseng
Both American and Korean ginseng contain ginsenosides: the substance that gives ginseng its medicinal properties. However, each species has different types of ginsenosides and in different proportions. These differences dictate what therapeutic properties they will have.
Korean ginseng is regarded as the “true ginseng.” It has a higher percentage of ginsenosides. American ginseng is considered “milder” due to its lower percentage of ginsenosides. Physically, they look very similar. In traditional Asian herbal medicine, Korean ginseng is warmer or has more “yang.” It is better suited to invigorate and stimulate. American ginseng is cooler and has more “yin.” It is better suited to sedate and calm. Both varieties are widely consumed for medicinal purposes.
Korean ginseng is further categorized into two types: red and white ginseng. It’s the same root but processed differently. The white version is just ginseng that is dried. Red ginseng is steamed first, then dried. The steaming process gives the red ginseng a more concentrated taste. It’s especially good for circulatory issues; it helps warm the hands and feet.
Health Benefits
Depending on your malady, American or Korean ginseng may be better for you. Overall, both varieties of ginseng have beneficial properties that cover a myriad of ailments. Make sure you consult a physician before you use ginseng for medical purposes.
Korean Ginseng:
Enhance mental concentration
Strengthen and stimulate the central nervous system
Immune system booster
Help control diabetes
Impotence
Erectile dysfunction
Moods, stress, depression
Improve heart action
Reduce cholesterol levels
Reduce headaches
Treat high and low blood pressure
Relieve insomnia
Relieve chest congestion
Fatigue
American Ginseng:
Stimulate appetite
Memory loss
Depression
Stress and fatigue
Stimulate the central nervous system
Treat insomnia
Improve cardiovascular activity
Improve memory and concentration
Dissolve tumors
Cholesterol
Relieve menopause symptoms
Benefits the endocrine system
Regulate blood sugar levels
Control type 2 diabetes
Cold and Flu
How Koreans Consume Ginseng
Koreans mostly consume ginseng in liquid form: teas, tonics and in commercially produced energy drinks. The teas or tonics are made with concentrated ginseng extracts or granules dissolved in hot water (not boiling). Ginseng tea can be bitter and is typically sweetened with a bit of honey. Dried roots are also used for tea, but since they are expensive, extracts and granules are more popular.
Ginseng extract is also consumed in cold drinks, such as juice for a refreshing summer drink. Commercially produced “energy drinks” are sold in grocery and convenience stores all over Korea as a quick pick-me-up, and for hangovers.
Ginseng is also taken as an herbal supplement in pill or liquid form. This is a quick and convenient way to get a high dose of pure ginseng root.
Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) is a popular Korean dish made with a small whole chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube (Korean dates). Traditionally, samgyetang is eaten during the three hottest days of the year, known as Chobok, Jungbok and Malbok. It was a way to keep up energy and to balance body heat with the weather outside. Nowadays, samgyetang is a healthy dish eaten throughout the year in Korea.
So, if you are looking for a quick energy boost or feel the sniffles coming on, give ginseng a try. My grandfather was a spritely man who worked in his garden well into his old age; I suppose his daily dose of ginseng was worth it!
