“It’s a boy!” Might be what someone would exclaim at first glance of a Ginseng root. Ginseng, with it’s round trunk and arm-like branches does resemble a human body. This is where the name comes from. Ginseng means “root of man” or “man-root”. It not only looks like a man but it has benefited mankind in many ways and in many different cultures. The American Indians called it Gesins and used it for stomach and bronchial disorders as well as stomach and neck pain. The Chinese call it Ren Shin and have used it for over 5,000 years as a tonic for weakness and extra energy. The term Panax (from the Greek panacea meaning ‘cure-all’) is now used to identify the species in general.
Ginseng can increase physical and mental endurance, normalize body functions, help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, increase energy, alleviate the symptoms of menopause, help sustain normal immune function and help the body adapt to stress. Athletes claim that it gives them a competitive edge. Although hypoglycemics are advised to avoid Ginseng, it is recommended for diabetics. A Chinese herbalist in 200 B. C. stated, “Ginseng can vitalize the organs, calm the nerves, stop palpitations due to fright, brighten the vision, increase intellect and with long term use, prolong life and make one feel young again.” It has been aptly described as the “King of tonics.”
Scientific research has confirmed that there are many legitimate reasons for this variety of benefits. Ginseng contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B12 and Biotin as well as Pectin, choline, minerals, carbohydrates, traces of Germaniun and Flavonoids.
Some people have experienced unwelcome side-effects from pure Ginseng, since it is a stimulant. Symptoms include high blood pressure (although higher amounts seem to actually reduce blood pressure), and difficulty sleeping if it is taken too late in the day.
There are several types of Ginseng. Raw Ginseng is referred to as white Ginseng. The Red variety has been heated and also may be combined with other ingredients. Panax is the most widely used species and includes Korean, and some varieties of Chinese Ginseng. Two other types include American Ginseng and what has typically been called Siberian Ginseng.
American Ginseng was adopted by colonists in the early 1700′s. It was the type that was preferred by the Eclectic Physicans before the advent of modern drug therapy. It is similar to pure Panax, but is much milder. It is especially prevalent in the state of Wisconsin and is gradually replacing cheese as their most significant export. At the present time it is one of the most highly prized forms of Ginseng in the Orient.
A distant cousin of Ginseng is Eleutherococcus Senticosus, often called Eleuthero. For years it was known as Siberian Ginseng, but recently the Food and Drug Administration determined that it does not meet the strict requirements to be called Ginseng, so from now on it must be referred to as either Eleutherococcus Senticosus or simply Eleuthero. Eleuthero has been studied extensively in Russia by Dr. I.I. Brekhman who coined the term “adaptogen”. This refers to a substance that acts in harmony with the body to increase its natural ability to normalize body funtions and adapt to stress. According to Dr. Brekhman, Eleuthero enhances physical and mental activity, stamina and reduces fatigue. It does this by increasing the utilization of fatty acids as an energy source sparing glycogen (stored sugar). In tests, he found that Soviet soldiers performed better both physically and mentally than others who received a placebo (sugar pills) in endurance tests. Russian telegraphers were also able to concentrate better for longer periods of time when using Eleuthero. It has also been used in conjunction with licorice to strengthen and nourish Adrenal Glands which also helps to normalize body functions and resist the effects of occasional stress.
It is wise to start slowly with Ginseng, especially the Panax variety and avoid high concentrations of the Ginseng extracts. The primary root is the most efficient part of the plant and is very costly but produces superior results. Look for products that use the whole root. Years of experience has shown many formulators that a balanced combination of high quality herbs increases the potential of this amazing herb, Ginseng, and any potential side effects may be eliminated.
If increased energy, hormone balance, better sleep quality, and the ability to withstand stress is what your body is asking for, a properly combined formula using a comprehensive blend of superior Ginsengs and Eleuthero may very well meet the need.
Earl Mindell’s Herb Bible, by Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., A Fireside Book Published by Simon & Schuster (c) 1992
Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., Avery Publishing (c) 2000
Doctor’s Guide to Natural Medicine. By Paul Barney, M.D. Woodland Publishing Co. (c) 1998.
Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. By Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D. Keats Publishing, New Canaan CT. (c) 1986.
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