Ginseng - An antioxidant plant for vitality and to strengthen the immune system
- Ryan VALLY
- May 23
- 3 min read
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a plant that has been widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. It is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body better manage stress and regain balance.
A little history:
The use of ginseng in the Orient dates back over 4,000 years, and the "root of life" is considered a panacea thanks to its many components that provide "adaptogenic" benefits—meaning that the root provides you with the elements your body needs, balancing and strengthening the organism.
At the end of the 18th century, faced with the growing demand for the root and the difficulty of finding it in the wild, Koreans began to cultivate ginseng rationally and appropriately. They developed methods for successfully cultivating ginseng after a precise analysis and perfect re-creation of the usual forest conditions for wild ginseng growth.
In 1843, the variety of ginseng root cultivated in Korea received the scientific name "Panax C.A. Meyer," after the person who classified and differentiated it from other varieties. Since then, extensive work and research has been conducted to validate the therapeutic benefits of Korean ginseng.
Here are some key aspects of its use in TCM:
General tonic:
Ginseng is best known for its tonic properties. In TCM, it is used to strengthen Qi (vital energy), especially in cases of chronic fatigue, general weakness, or exhaustion. It is often prescribed to tonify the Qi of the spleen and lungs, which are considered the main organs related to energy production in the body.
Improved Circulation:
Ginseng improves blood circulation, which is helpful in strengthening heart function and boosting metabolism.
Sexual Tonic:
Thanks to its adaptogenic and strengthening properties, Red Ginseng helps you achieve optimal sexual condition.
Improved Concentration:
Red Ginseng can contribute to mental clarity and better concentration, making it an excellent ally for those who need to stay alert. Some studies have shown beneficial effects on memory and a feeling of calm after taking ginseng.
Sports Performance:
For athletes, Red Ginseng can be a major asset. It can increase endurance, accelerate recovery after exercise, and improve overall physical performance.
Strengthening Yang:
According to TCM, ginseng is also considered a Yang tonic, meaning it can be beneficial for people with Yang deficiency, such as those experiencing symptoms of coldness, chills, muscle weakness, and other signs of internal “coldness.”.
Immune System Support:
As a Qi and Yang stimulant, ginseng is often used to improve immunity and help prevent disease. It is also used for its adaptogenic effects, allowing the body to better resist stress.
Effect on Shen:
Shen, in TCM, refers to the mind or consciousness. Ginseng is sometimes prescribed to calm the mind, improve concentration and mental clarity, and treat insomnia or stress-related disorders.
Forms and Preparation:
Ginseng can be consumed in various forms in TCM, such as:
• Dried root: It is often used as a decoction, powder, or infusion.
• Capsules: Standardized extract (standardized to contain at least 10% ginsenosides). Take 1000 mg per day, 2 or 3 times a day.
• Powder: 1 to 3 g per day.
• Mother tincture: 5 to 10 ml per day, 2 or 3 times a day.
• Concentrated: 1/2 teaspoon per day.
💡 Good to know: The higher the ginsenoside content (the plant's main active ingredient), the higher the quality of the product. This limits the risk of combining it with other substances. For example, a 200 mg capsule with a 5% concentration contains 10 mg of ginsenosides, while a 200 mg capsule with a 15% concentration contains 30 mg. Therefore, choose organic ginseng.
Precautions:
Although ginseng is widely valued for its benefits, it must be used with caution. Excessive use can cause restlessness, insomnia, or even side effects related to overstimulation of Qi and Yang. It is not recommended for people with excessive internal heat, hypertension, or circulatory disorders without consulting an experienced practitioner.
In summary, ginseng holds a central place in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is used to invigorate vital energy, strengthen the body, and improve overall health.
Some links:
There you go 😊 Take care of yourself ❤️
