Ginseng
Ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng or just panax, is actually a very slow growing shrubby looking plant with very fleshy and medicinal roots. Originally used in Chinese herbal medicines, ginseng is now popular all around the world in moderately temperate climates. Ginseng varieties now include:
- Korean ginseng
- American ginseng
- Wisconsin ginseng
- Red ginseng
- Indiana ginseng
- Wild ginseng
In addition there are other countries that grow ginseng, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom are other areas where ginseng is routinely grown. Learning how to grow ginseng is a bit challenging, but once the soil is properly prepared and the correct amount of moisture is provided this perennial plant is easy to cultivate. Ginseng is grown for a period of time before harvesting, with white ginseng harvested when the plant is over four years old. Ginseng may be planted through the use of root sections or through planting ginseng seed. Either option is viable in most climates, although seeded varieties may not be as practical as planting from roots for those that wish to commercially grow the herb.
Red ginseng is made by actually heating the roots of the 6 year old ginseng plant by sun-drying or steaming, and then making a strong tea that is taken frequently. Red ginseng is considered to be effective in assisting in sexual performance in men, as well as in control of some types of cancer. Ginseng and high blood pressure reduction has also been linked in many studies, with the promise of additional information through ongoing research. Ginseng has also been linked with assisting with patients that have had chronic circulatory problems or have a history of heart disease.
The benefits of ginseng, either wild or cultivated include improving energy levels, increasing sexual performance, stimulating the body and speeding up recovery after illness, surgical procedures or when chronic illness is present. The benefits of Korean ginseng are much the same, although some herbalists believe that the wild Korean ginseng is more potent than the cultivated varieties now commonly used.
In Korea, a cigarette manufacture actually makes ginseng smokes, which are a combination of several different types of dried herbs and tobacco. There is little evidence that there is any health benefit to smoking ginseng, however some traditional preparations of the root are smoked over a sulfur fire to dry.
