Asian Ginseng

Panax ginseng

Common & Folk Names

• Korean Ginseng
• Asian Ginseng
• Chinese Ginseng
• Panax Ginseng
• Ren Shen (Chinese)
• Red Ginseng (processed form)
• White Ginseng (unprocessed dried root)

Plant Family

Araliaceae

Geographic Location

Native to mountainous regions of northeastern China, the Korean Peninsula, and far eastern Russia. Found in cool, shaded forests in mountainous areas. Wild ginseng (Panax ginseng) is now extremely rare due to centuries of overharvesting and is critically endangered. Virtually all commercial ginseng comes from cultivation in China, Korea, and other regions. Cannot be grown wild-harvested sustainably; cultivation is essential.

Habitat

Naturally grows in cool, moist, deciduous forests with deep shade and rich, well-draining soil. Requires specific temperature ranges, humidity levels, and

shade. Found at elevations of 500-2,000 metres in native range. The slow-growing nature and specific habitat requirements made wild ginseng rare and valuable.

Growing Conditions

Sun: Deep shade (75-90% shade); cannot tolerate direct sunlight

Soil: Rich, well-draining, loamy soil with high organic matter; pH 5.5-6.5 (acidic); requires excellent drainage yet consistent moisture

Propagation: Grown from seed (requires 18-24 months stratification before germination); extremely slow-growing

Care: Requires artificial shade structures; careful moisture management (consistent but never waterlogged); takes 4-6 years minimum to produce harvestable roots (wild ginseng can be decades old); highly susceptible to diseases; requires intensive management; expensive and challenging to cultivate

NZ Planting Calendar

Sowing (seed): Not practical for home cultivation; requires 18-24 months cold stratification

Propagation: Commercial cultivation only; too challenging for home growers

Planting: Not recommended for NZ home cultivation

Growth: Perennial; extremely slow-growing; requires 4-6 years minimum for harvest

Flowering: Small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers; red berries

Harvest: Roots harvested after minimum 4-6 years (older roots more valuable medicinally)

Note: Ginseng cultivation is NOT practical in NZ for home growers; climate is not ideal (too warm in most regions); requires cool summers and specific conditions; commercial cultivation exists in some countries but is highly specialised and expensive; virtually impossible for individual herbalists to grow; all medicinal ginseng in NZ is imported; wild ginseng is critically endangered globally and should never be harvested; sustainability and quality are major concerns in the ginseng trade

Harvesting Guidelines

Commercial Harvesting: Roots are harvested after minimum 4-6 years of cultivation (older roots, 6-9 years, are more potent and valuable). The entire root system is carefully dug, washed, and processed. Two main processing methods:

• White Ginseng: Dried without further processing
• Red Ginseng: Steamed then dried (steaming alters chemical profile, creating different therapeutic properties; red ginseng is considered more warming and stimulating)

Parts Used

• Root (the only part used medicinally)
• Red ginseng (steamed, processed root)
• White ginseng (unprocessed dried root)

Constituents & their Actions

Ginseng’s therapeutic properties arise from ginsenosides (triterpene saponins), polysaccharides, and other compounds that provide adaptogenic, tonic, and multiple physiological effects.

Ginsenosides (Triterpene Saponins):

These are the primary active constituents, with over 30 different ginsenosides identified. Some of the main ginsenosides are:

• Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd (protopanaxadiol group – generally sedating, hypotensive)
• Rg1, Re (protopanaxatriol group – generally stimulating, hypertensive)
• Various other ginsenosides with different effects

The main actions of ginsenosides are:

• Provide adaptogenic effects (bidirectional, balancing)
• Modulate the HPA axis and stress responses
• Affect neurotransmitter systems
• Influence cardiovascular function
• Support immune function
• Demonstrate neuroprotective properties
  • Note: Different ginsenosides have different and sometimes opposing effects; the balance determines overall action

Polysaccharides:

Complex carbohydrates with immune-modulating properties.

The main actions of polysaccharides are:

• Stimulate immune function
• Activate macrophages
• Enhance immune responses
• Contribute to adaptogenic effects

Polyacetylenes (Panaxynol and Others):

Bioactive compounds with various effects.

The main actions of polyacetylenes are:

• Demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects
• Exhibit antimicrobial properties
• Contribute to overall therapeutic profile

Polyphenols and Flavonoids:

Antioxidant compounds.

The main actions of these compounds are:

• Provide antioxidant protection
• Support anti-inflammatory effects
• Contribute to neuroprotective properties

Actions with Mechanisms

Adaptogen:
Ginseng is one of the original adaptogens (the term “adaptogen” was partly developed through research on ginseng). The ginsenosides modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which in turn helps normalise stress responses, supports stress resilience, and prevents stress-induced damage. The bidirectional effects mean ginseng can both stimulate sluggish function and calm excessive responses, bringing the body towards balance. Research demonstrates improved stress adaptation, enhanced physical and mental performance under stress, and protection against stress-induced damage. The adaptogenic effects support the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis despite challenging conditions. Ginseng builds stress resilience over time with regular use rather than providing immediate stimulation.

Tonic and Restorative:
Ginseng is a premier tonic herb, building vital energy (qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine), supporting overall vitality, and restoring depleted systems. The tonic effects make ginseng valuable for recovery from illness, chronic fatigue, weakened constitution, and age-related decline. The restorative properties support convalescence, enhance resilience, and strengthen overall physiological function. Unlike stimulants that deplete reserves, ginseng builds genuine vitality and supports long-term health. The tonic effects develop with consistent use over weeks to months.

Cognitive Enhancement and Neuroprotection:
Ginseng enhances various aspects of cognitive function including memory, concentration, mental clarity, and information processing. The mechanisms involve improved cerebral blood flow, neuroprotective effects that prevent neuronal damage, modulation of neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, GABA), and support for neuronal health and function. Research demonstrates improved cognitive performance, enhanced memory, better attention and focus, and protection against cognitive decline. The cognitive benefits are pronounced in both healthy individuals and those experiencing age-related cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment. The neuroprotective effects suggest potential benefits for neurodegenerative diseases, though more research is needed.

Energy and Anti-Fatigue:
Ginseng reduces both physical and mental fatigue through multiple mechanisms. The adaptogenic effects optimise energy production and utilisation, the ginsenosides support mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism, and the overall tonic effects build energy reserves. Research demonstrates reduced fatigue, improved endurance, better stamina, and enhanced recovery from exertion. The anti-fatigue effects are particularly valuable for chronic fatigue, post-illness weakness, and demanding physical or mental work. Unlike caffeine and other stimulants, ginseng provides sustained energy without jitters, crashes, or interference with sleep (when used appropriately).

Immune Modulation:
Ginseng enhances immune function through multiple mechanisms. The polysaccharides and ginsenosides activate macrophages and other immune cells, enhance phagocytosis, increase production of immune signalling molecules (cytokines, interferons), and support overall immune competence. Research demonstrates enhanced immune responses, increased resistance to infections, and improved recovery from illness. The immune-modulating effects make ginseng valuable for preventing infections, supporting immune function during illness, and strengthening overall immune resilience. The effects are immunomodulatory rather than simply stimulating, supporting balanced immune function.

Cardiovascular Support:
Ginseng supports cardiovascular health through multiple mechanisms. Different ginsenosides have different cardiovascular effects—some lower blood pressure whilst others raise it, creating balanced, regulatory effects. The herb improves endothelial function, supports healthy lipid profiles, demonstrates antioxidant effects that protect cardiovascular tissues, and may improve cardiac function. Research shows modest benefits for blood pressure regulation, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular health. The bidirectional effects make ginseng suitable for various cardiovascular conditions under professional supervision.

Blood Glucose Regulation:
Ginseng demonstrates blood glucose-lowering effects in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. The mechanisms involve improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced glucose uptake by cells, and effects on pancreatic function. Research shows reduced fasting blood glucose, improved glucose tolerance, and better glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes. The blood glucose effects require caution when combining with diabetes medications and monitoring of blood sugar levels.

Sexual Function and Fertility:
Traditional use and some research support benefits for sexual function and fertility in both men and women. The mechanisms may involve effects on sex hormones, improved blood flow, stress reduction, and overall vitality enhancement. Research shows some benefits for erectile dysfunction, though results are mixed. The tonic effects may support reproductive health broadly.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant:
Multiple constituents provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The ginsenosides modulate inflammatory pathways, whilst polyphenols scavenge free radicals. These effects contribute to many of ginseng’s benefits and support overall health and healthy ageing.

Main Use

Asian ginseng is primarily used as an adaptogenic tonic for building vitality, enhancing resilience, supporting recovery from illness or stress, and promoting healthy ageing. The herb excels at addressing chronic stress, fatigue, weakened constitution, and age-related decline. Regular use builds genuine energy and resilience over weeks to months rather than providing immediate stimulation.

For chronic fatigue, post-illness weakness, and recovery from demanding periods, ginseng provides sustained energy support and helps rebuild depleted reserves. The tonic effects strengthen overall vitality and support full recovery.

Ginseng supports cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity, particularly in ageing individuals or those experiencing stress-related cognitive decline. The neuroprotective effects may help prevent age-related cognitive deterioration.

For immune support, particularly in individuals prone to infections or recovering from illness, ginseng strengthens immune defences and enhances resistance to infections.

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses ginseng extensively for qi deficiency (low vital energy) characterised by fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, shortness of breath, and overall depletion. The herb is considered one of the most important qi tonics.

Athletes and physically active individuals use ginseng for enhanced endurance, improved performance, better recovery, and sustained energy during training and competition.

For stress resilience and adaptation to demanding conditions, ginseng builds stress resistance and maintains function during challenging periods.

Type 2 diabetes management may benefit from ginseng’s blood glucose-lowering effects, though this requires professional supervision and monitoring.

CRITICAL NOTES:

• Ginseng works best with consistent long-term use (weeks to months) rather than occasional or short-term use
• Quality varies ENORMOUSLY between products—choose carefully from reputable sources
• Wild ginseng is critically endangered; only use cultivated ginseng from sustainable sources
• Red vs. white ginseng have somewhat different properties; red is more warming and stimulating

Preparations

QUALITY IS CRITICAL: Ginseng products vary from excellent to worthless. Choose products that:

• Specify Panax ginseng (not Siberian ginseng or American ginseng, which are different plants)
• Provide standardisation to ginsenoside content (typically 4-7% total ginsenosides)
• Come from reputable manufacturers with quality testing
• Specify root age (older roots are more potent)
• Specify processing method (red vs. white ginseng)

Standardised Extract (Capsules/Tablets): Most reliable preparation. Standardised to 4-7% total ginsenosides. 200-400mg daily. Provides consistent, research-backed dosing.

Traditional Decoction: Simmer 3-9g of root slices in water for 1-2 hours; drink the tea. Traditional preparation though time-consuming. Red ginseng decoctions are particularly valued.

Powder: 1-2g daily in capsules or mixed into food/liquid. Ensure quality and proper species.

Tincture (1:5, 60% alcohol): 1-4ml (20-80 drops), 1-2 times daily. Less common than standardised extracts.

Ginseng Tea (Commercial): Convenient but variable quality. Check ginsenoside content.

Traditional Preparations: Include ginseng wine, ginseng honey, and various traditional formulas. These have cultural significance but variable quality.

Dosage

• Standardised Extract (4-7% ginsenosides): 200-400mg daily; typically 200mg twice daily
• Dried Root (traditional): 3-9g daily as decoction or powder; 1-2g daily for tonic use; higher doses (up to 9g) for specific therapeutic purposes under supervision
• Tincture: 1-4ml (20-80 drops), 1-2 times daily

IMPORTANT TIMING AND DURATION NOTES:

• Take in morning and/or midday; avoid evening doses (can interfere with sleep)
• Use cyclically: 2-3 months on, 1 month off (traditional recommendation); some sources suggest 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off
• Effects build over time; continue for at least 4-8 weeks to assess benefits
• Do not combine with stimulants (caffeine) initially; assess individual response

Safety & Drug Interactions

Scientific Evidence

Cognitive Function: Multiple studies demonstrate improvements in cognitive performance, memory, attention, and mental fatigue. A systematic review concluded that ginseng shows promise for cognitive enhancement, though study quality varies. Benefits observed in both healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairment.

Fatigue and Physical Performance: Research shows reduced fatigue and improved physical performance in various populations. Effects on athletic performance are modest but consistent across studies.

Immune Function: Studies demonstrate immune-enhancing effects including increased immune cell activity and improved resistance to infections. Clinical trials show reduced frequency and severity of colds with ginseng supplementation.

Blood Glucose Control: Multiple studies demonstrate blood glucose-lowering effects in type 2 diabetes. Meta-analyses support modest benefits for glycaemic control.

Adaptogenic and Stress-Protective Effects: Research demonstrates modulation of stress responses, improved stress adaptation, and protection against stress-induced damage. The mechanisms are well-characterised.

Cardiovascular Effects: Studies show various cardiovascular benefits including improved endothelial function, modest effects on blood pressure and lipids, and antioxidant cardioprotection.

Quality and Variability Issues: Research demonstrates enormous variability in ginsenoside content between products, with some containing little or no active constituents. This quality variation explains some inconsistent research results.

Western Energetics

Temperature: Warming. Ginseng is moderately to significantly warming, making it suitable for cold, depleted conditions but potentially too warming for hot, inflammatory states. Red ginseng is more warming than white ginseng.

Moisture: Neutral to slightly moistening. Ginseng supports fluids and tonifies without strongly drying or moistening.

Tissue State: Particularly indicated for atrophy and depression (tissue states)—depletion, exhaustion, weakened function, and deficiency. Ginseng excels at tonifying and building depleted systems, restoring vitality, and strengthening weak constitution. Also valuable for addressing stagnation when combined with deficiency. The warming, building nature makes ginseng ideal for cold, deficient conditions.

Taste

Sweet: Predominantly sweet taste reflecting tonic, building properties

Slightly Bitter: A subtle bitter note is present

Aromatic: A characteristic aromatic quality (more pronounced in fresh root)

Warming: A warming sensation reflects the herb’s thermal nature

The sweetness is characteristic and distinguishes ginseng from many other herbs.

Plant Lore

Ginseng has been valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Korean traditional medicine for over 2,000 years. The herb is considered one of the most important and valuable medicinal plants in East Asian medicine, used by emperors, nobility, and commoners alike (when they could afford it).

The name “Panax” derives from Greek “panakos” (panacea, cure-all), reflecting ginseng’s reputation for treating numerous conditions. The genus name was given by Carl Linnaeus, acknowledging ginseng’s medicinal importance.

Wild ginseng was so highly valued that it inspired “ginseng hunting”—people would search forests for wild roots, which could command extremely high prices. The human-shaped roots were considered especially valuable and auspicious. Wild ginseng became increasingly rare due to overharvesting, leading to cultivation beginning centuries ago.

The Korean Peninsula became particularly associated with ginseng cultivation and processing. Korean red ginseng (steamed, processed roots) became world-renowned for quality and commanded premium prices. Korea developed sophisticated cultivation and processing methods over centuries.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginseng is categorised as a qi tonic, used for qi deficiency manifesting as fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, and general depletion. The herb is considered warming and suited to individuals with cold, deficient conditions rather than hot, excess states.

Different grades of ginseng exist based on root age, cultivation methods, and processing. Wild-simulated ginseng (grown in forest conditions mimicking wild growth) commands higher prices than cultivated field ginseng. Red ginseng (steamed) is valued differently than white ginseng (simply dried).

The ginseng trade was historically important economically, with roots transported along trade routes. The high value made ginseng a valuable commodity and led to cultivation spreading beyond its native range.

Modern wild ginseng is critically endangered, with remaining wild populations protected in some regions. Conservation efforts and sustainable cultivation are essential for ginseng’s future.

The shape of ginseng roots sometimes resembles human form, which contributed to beliefs in the root’s power and led to various folklore and traditions around particularly human-shaped roots.

Additional Information

Ginseng vs. Other “Ginsengs”:

• Asian/Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng): The “true” ginseng; most researched; most warming
• American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): Related species; cooler energetically; different properties; also endangered in wild
• Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus): NOT true ginseng; different plant, different constituents; adaptogenic but distinct properties
• Other plants called “ginseng” are not related and should not be confused

Red vs. White Ginseng:

• White Ginseng: Dried root without further processing; less processed; milder
• Red Ginseng: Steamed then dried; processing alters ginsenoside profile; considered more warming and stimulating; some research suggests enhanced benefits from processing

Quality Crisis: The ginseng market has serious quality issues:

• Adulteration with other plant species
• Low ginsenoside content (sometimes none)
• Wrong species sold as Panax ginseng
• Inflated claims about root age or quality
• Contamination with pesticides or heavy metals

ALWAYS choose:

• Reputable manufacturers with testing
• Products standardised to ginsenoside content
• Third-party verification when possible
• Products specifying Panax ginseng

Sustainability: Wild ginseng is critically endangered. Only use:

• Cultivated ginseng from sustainable sources
• Products with sustainability certification
• Never wild-harvested ginseng

Who Benefits Most:

• Older adults experiencing age-related decline
• Individuals recovering from illness or surgery (after acute phase)
• Those with chronic fatigue or low vitality
• People experiencing chronic stress and depletion
• Individuals with cold, deficient constitutions

Who Should Avoid:

• Those with hot, excess constitutions
• Individuals with uncontrolled hypertension
• People prone to overstimulation or anxiety
• Those taking multiple medications (interaction risks)

Optimising Ginseng Use:

• Take in morning/midday (not evening)
• Start with lower doses
• Use cyclically (periods of use and rest)
• Combine with good diet, sleep, and stress management
• Choose high-quality products
• Be patient—effects build over weeks

Cost Considerations: High-quality ginseng is expensive due to:

• Slow growth (4-6+ years minimum)
• Labour-intensive cultivation
• Processing requirements
• High demand

Inexpensive ginseng products are usually poor quality. View ginseng as an investment in health requiring appropriate budget.

Sources

Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

Mills, S., & Bone, K. (2005). The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety. Elsevier.

Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress-protective activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1), 188-224.

Reay, J. L., Kennedy, D. O., & Scholey, A. B. (2005). Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 19(4), 357-365.

Shergis, J. L., Zhang, A. L., Zhou, W., & Xue, C. C. (2013). Panax ginseng in randomised controlled trials: A systematic review. Phytotherapy Research, 27(7), 949-965.

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Lee, N. H., & Son, C. G. (2011). Systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ginseng. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 4(2), 85-97.

Attele, A. S., Wu, J. A., & Yuan, C. S. (1999). Ginseng pharmacology: Multiple constituents and multiple actions. Biochemical Pharmacology, 58(11), 1685-1693.

Radad, K., Gille, G., Liu, L., & Rausch, W. D. (2006). Use of ginseng in medicine with emphasis on neurodegenerative disorders. Journal of Pharmacological Sciences, 100(3), 175-186.

Bucci, L. R. (2000). Selected herbals and human exercise performance. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 72(2), 624s-636s.

Vuksan, V., Sung, M. K., Sievenpiper, J. L., Stavro, P. M., Jenkins, A. L., Di Buono, M., Lee, K. S., Leiter, L. A., Nam, K. Y., Arnason, J. T., Choi, M., & Naeem, A. (2008). Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) improves glucose and insulin regulation in well-controlled, type 2 diabetes: Results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of efficacy and safety. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, 18(1), 46-56.

Scaglione, F., Cattaneo, G., Alessandria, M., & Cogo, R. (1996). Efficacy and safety of the standardised ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold. Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research, 22(2), 65-72.

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