Ginseng

Ginseng is a famous medicinal herb known for boosting energy, immunity, and overall health. Its roots have been valued for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Asia and Europe.

Botanical Names

• Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng)

• P. Japonica

• P. Natoginseng (Chinese Ginseng)

• P. Quinquefolium (American Ginseng)

Common Names

• Ginseng

• Panax

• Pannag

• Ninjin

Parts Used

• Root

Habitat

Ginseng naturally grows in hilly forests of Asian and European countries. It prefers moist climates and is now also grown in parts of India.

Chemical Properties

Ginseng roots are rich in special chemicals called saponin glycosides (from the triterpenoid group). These are the key compounds responsible for its medicinal effects.

Important components include:

• Ginsenosides

• Panaxosides

• Chikusetsusaponin

Ginseng also contains:

• Aglycone dammarol

• Oleanolic acid (from Panaxosides)

About 13 types of ginsenosides have been identified in Ginseng.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits

Ginseng is famous for:

• Boosting immunity and increasing the body's resistance against diseases.

• Working as both a stimulant (energizer) and a sedative (calmer).

• Acting as a natural aphrodisiac (improves sexual health).

• Supporting adrenal and thyroid gland function.

• Prolonging life and reducing giddiness in elderly and diabetic patients (as believed in traditional use).

It is also used for treating:

• General weakness and tiredness

• Loss of appetite

• Joint pains in old age

• Early ejaculation and nocturnal emissions

• Depression

• Anaemia (low blood levels)

Other benefits:

• Acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals.

• Used in cosmetics and skincare products for its anti-ageing and skin-boosting properties.

Caution:
Though Ginseng is considered safe, excessive or long-term use may cause side effects similar to corticosteroid poisoning. So it should be taken carefully under guidance.