Asian Ginseng

Panax ginseng

Description: A perennial with a hairless round stem with terminal whorls of palmate leaves. The plant has a fusiform rhizome which is often palmate at the tip. The medicinal part is the dried root. The plant is indigenous to China. Panax quinquefolius grows in the United States.

Composition: The root contains triterpene saponins, ginsenosides (main acitve ingredient) and polyynes.

Action: Increases resistance under stress.

Use: Invigoration when fatigued, when capacity for concentration declines, and when recovering from sickness.

Contraindications: None known.

Side Effects: None known.

Cautions: Massive overdosage can cause Ginseng Abuse Syndrome which is characterized by sleeplessness, hypertonia and edema.

Administration: Tea and powder available for internal use. May use for up to 3 months with a repeated course.