Korean Ginseng Root: A Traditional Medicinal Herb
Korean ginseng root (Panax ginseng), also known as Asian ginseng or Chinese ginseng, has been a staple in Asian cultures for over 2,000 years.
“I grew up in a Korean household, and my mom’s side of the family relies on Chinese medicine daily,” says Eileen Cho, a writer from Paris, France. Her mother prepares a soup with ginseng, called samgyetang, to consume during the hottest days of the year. The spicy root warms the body, causing sweat, which actually cools you down. Cho continues to use ginseng in her diet and as a supplement to boost her energy levels.
There are many types of ginseng, but not all belong to the Panax genus. Siberian Ginseng, Indian Ginseng (Ashwagandha), and Peruvian Ginseng (Maca) are powerful adaptogens that help the body adapt to stress, though they are unrelated to Korean ginseng. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is related to Korean ginseng but has more cooling properties.
Korean ginseng contains natural plant compounds called ginsenosides, which interact with the body to positively affect the nervous system, mental function, and overall quality of life. The root is prepared in two ways: red ginseng (using the whole root) and white ginseng (peeled and dried).
History of Korean Ginseng
The first written record of ginseng as an herbal medicine dates back to around 100 AD in “The Classic of Herbal Medicine” by Shennong Ben Cao Jing. According to legend, Shennong consumed about 70 different herbs daily to determine their benefits for humans, and ginseng was highly regarded.
Korean ginseng gained popularity in Shangdang, China, around the first century BC during the Han dynasty. Early emperors considered it a cure-all herb, using it in lotions and soaps. The Chinese believed that old ginseng roots could pass longevity to those who used them.
In traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng is considered a warm herb, meaning it generates warmth in the body and is used to treat conditions associated with cold, such as persistent chills.
7 Benefits of Korean Ginseng
Korean ginseng is a potent herb that affects various systems in the body, from the brain and immune system to sex drive and sleep patterns. Here are its top seven benefits:
Boosts Mental Performance
If you need an herb to improve cognitive function, Korean ginseng is an excellent choice. It stimulates the brain, enhances memory, and helps maintain concentration.
Boosts Sex Drive & Fertility
Known as the “king of all herbs,” Korean ginseng can increase libido. Traditional Chinese medicine has long used Korean red ginseng to help men achieve and maintain erections. Ginsenosides in ginseng promote normal sperm viability and fertility.
Natural Immune Booster
Ginseng naturally boosts the immune system, helping to fend off harmful organisms and keeping you healthy during the sick season.
Helps Relieve Stress
Korean ginseng helps balance stress-related changes, improving mental health and providing a brighter outlook.
Reduces Fatigue & Improves Sleep
Ginseng helps eliminate mid-afternoon slumps and improves sleep quality, leaving you refreshed and free from fatigue.
Promotes Healthy Skin
Red ginseng supplements help maintain glowing, healthy skin by combating free radicals and boosting the immune system.
Promotes a Normal Response to Inflammation
Red ginseng helps minimize muscle damage from hard exercise by promoting a normal response to inflammation.
Best Ways to Add Korean Ginseng to Your Diet
Adding Korean ginseng to your daily routine is easy. It is available in tea, dietary supplements, and can be added to recipes. Avoid energy drinks and wine made with ginseng to stay healthy.
Many people enjoy chewing on the raw root, which has a slight bitterness that fades into an earthy flavor. If the raw root is too strong, it can be cooked into soups or made into tea.
Stress-Relieving Korean Ginseng Tea
Try this stress-relieving ginseng tea if raw ginseng root is too strong for you.
Equipment
Kettle, Strainer, Teacup
Ingredients
1 teabag of Korean ginseng tea or 7 slices of raw root, Lavender buds, Peppermint leaf, Raw honey (optional)
Directions
Heat water to just before boiling and turn off the heat. Add lavender buds, peppermint leaf, and teabag (or slices) and steep for three minutes. Strain out lavender and peppermint if desired. Add raw honey to taste.
Supplements
Korean ginseng supplements are available as powders, capsules, or liquid extracts. Choose high-quality ingredients and reputable companies. Look for certified organic products to ensure you know what you’re consuming.
Global Healing’s Ginseng Fuzion is a certified organic blend of Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Indian ginseng (ashwagandha), Peruvian ginseng (maca), and other herbs. Made using a proprietary Raw Herbal Extract process, Ginseng Fuzion promotes energy, reduces stress, and encourages physical and mental balance.
Points to Remember
Korean ginseng has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine and the modern era. It helps with memory, skin health, sleep quality, libido, and counters oxidative stress due to its antioxidant properties.
Adding Korean ginseng to your diet is simple. You can chew the raw root, use it in cooking, or add it to beverages. It makes an excellent tea that helps relieve stress at the end of a long day.
Korean ginseng is also available as a supplement in powder, pill, or liquid form. Ensure you choose a quality product from a reputable company that is transparent about its sourcing and production methods.
