Guys, did you know that apart from King of Spice- Black pepper and King of Medicine- Haritaki there is a herb which is called King of herbs. It has been a part of traditional medicine for many centuries, especially in China, Korea and other Southeast Asian countries and is believed to be a wonder root that can augment the overall wellbeing.
This herb which is called the King Of Herb is Ginseng.
| Name | Ginseng |
| Botanical Name | Panax ginseng |
| Other names | Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng), Panax notoginseng (South China ginseng), and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng). |
| Ginseng benefits | Health benefits of Ginseng are :- 1. Boosts Immunity 2. Good for Brain 3. Treats Erectile dysfunction 4. Treats common allergies 5. Lowers blood sugar |
What is Ginseng ?
Ginseng botanically called Panax ginseng and commonly called man root is one of the most popular roots used extensively in alternative medicine. They have various medicinal and therapeutic properties like boosting stamina, lowering the levels of cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, muscle relaxation, alleviating stress etc.
Ginseng types
Broadly classified into Chinese ginseng or Asian ginseng (P.ginseng) and American ginseng (P.quinquefolius).
Asian Ginseng
Its root is said to be the original source of ginseng. It is also widely known as Panax ginseng, Chinese ginseng and Korean ginseng. A perennial plant that grows widely in the mountains of East Asia, this slow-growing herb is in fact one of the most protected species in Russia, China and Korea is used for commercial purposes and the roots can be harvested only when the plant reaches six years of age.
American Ginseng
American ginseng is actually a native to America but is also cultivated in China. Unlike Asian ginseng, American one is aromatic to smell, grows up to 18 inches in height and is found in deciduous forests.
American ginseng just like its twin Asian ginseng is prized for various medicinal properties. In olden days ‘sang hunters’ used to collect these roots and sell it to the traders from China, Hongkong and other Asian countries for use in traditional Chinese medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ginseng good for?
It helps to regulate blood sugar levels and has benefits for some cancers and strengthen the immune system, enhance brain function, fight fatigue and improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Is Ginseng a drug ?
No, it’s not a drug but a herbal medicine which has various medicinal and therapeutic properties like boosting stamina, lowering the levels of cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, muscle relaxation, alleviating stress etc.
Is Ginseng good for females ?
Yes, it is good for females as it is has beneficial effects on both menopausal symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women.
Does Ginseng work like Viagra ?
Yes, it is a natural aphrodisiac which improves sexual desire and arousal in both sexes.
Is Ginseng good for the heart ?
Yes, it is good for the heart as it has various properties including antioxidation, reduced platelet adhesion, vasomotor regulation, improving lipid profiles, and influencing various ion channels.
Ginseng benefits
Boosts Immunity :- It promotes overall physical wellbeing and builds stamina. It aids fighting sudden spurts of fatigue, dull mood and increases levels of energy. The components in this root – oligopeptides and polysaccharides bring down the oxidative stress, triggering the production of energy in body cells.
Reduces Inflammation :- Its antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties like ginsenoside help in combating inflammation and trigger the levels of antioxidants in body cells. Red ginseng is used for skin conditions like eczema as it stimulates antioxidant activity and is also effective in treating symptoms associated with menopause.
Good for the brain :- It is similar to Ashwagandha when it comes to improving the brain function, memory besides showing positive effects on behavior and mood. Chinese medicine practitioners strongly recommend ginseng as a part of daily diet for combating mental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and for regulating mood swings.
Treats Erectile Dysfunction :-The rich compounds in this root fight against the oxidative stress in blood vessels and aid normal functioning. Nitric oxide present in ginseng provides relaxation to the muscles and stimulates blood circulation. Hence it is strongly recommended in traditional medicinal practices for treating erectile dysfunction.
Lowers Blood Sugar :- Its compound-Ginsenosides plays a crucial role in lowering blood glucose and also in preventing sudden spike of sugar levels. It improves insulin resistance and helps in keeping this chronic condition under check.
Treats Common Allergies :- It prevents falling sick due to common allergies. The extract of this root strengthens epithelial cells in lungs and fights against flu or influenza.
Fights Cancer :- Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have potential cancer fighting components. Regular usage of it reduces the risk of cancers like oral, esophagus, colon, stomach, lung and liver by 16 per cent. It also reduces the side-effects in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Good for hair ;- Ginseng increases the dermal cells on the scalp which, in turn, strengthens the follicles and roots of the hair. It encourages the new growth of strands and also prevents hair thinning and breakage. Promotes fabulous, healthy, and soft, silky hair.
Conclusion
Ginseng is a popular root that is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine and also as a natural remedy for various health conditions in America. Broadly classified into three varieties – Asian ginseng, American ginseng and Korean ginseng it is available as fresh, red and white depending on the age of roots.
Ginseng exudes multiple medicinal and therapeutic properties including fighting fatigue, improving cognitive functions, boosting metabolism and preventing seasonal allergies.
This fork shaped, fleshy root treats various sexual disorders related to men like erectile dysfunction, lower sperm count. It also improves libido and sexual arousal in both sexes.
