If you're looking for a natural way to improve your overall health and wellness, then Panax ginseng (Chinese ginseng) may just be the answer. With a history of herbal use going back over 5,000 years, this slow-growing perennial plant has gained a reputation for promoting general body vigor, prolonging life, and more. The German Commission E Monographs have even approved Panax ginseng for lack of stamina.
Characterized by the presence of ginsenosides, Panax ginseng is a hardy plant that grows to about 0.8m tall. It prefers light, medium, or heavy soils that are moist and can grow in full or semi-shade. The plant has both male and female organs within the flowers and prefers acid, neutral, and basic (alkaline) soils.
The root of Panax ginseng is adaptogenic, stimulating, and relaxing to the nervous system, encouraging the secretion of hormones while also improving stamina, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and increasing resistance to disease. It is commonly used internally to treat debility associated with old age or illness, lack of appetite, insomnia, stress, shock, and chronic illness.
However, it's important to note that Panax ginseng is not typically prescribed for pregnant women or patients under the age of 40, or those with depression, acute anxiety, or acute inflammatory disease. It's usually only taken for a period of three weeks, and excess usage can cause headaches, restlessness, raised blood pressure, and other side effects, particularly when taken with caffeine, alcohol, turnips, or bitter or spicy foods.
Panax ginseng is typically harvested in the autumn, preferably from plants that are 6-7 years old, and can be used fresh or dried. A dose of 10ug/ml of ginseng saponins has been shown to significantly radio-protective when administered prior to gamma-irradiation.
Overall, Panax ginseng is a great way to naturally improve your general wellness and vitality. So if you're tired of feeling run down or lacking energy, consider trying Panax ginseng to help you get back on track.