Ginseng

panax ginseng,

What is Ginseng?

Ginseng has been used in Asian countries for a VERY long time. A natural stimulant with restorative properties, Ginseng is an edible herb that is found and grown in North America and in various regions of Asia. Considered by herbalists as the 'king' of herbs, ginseng's adaptogenic properties called ginsenosides and tonic effects make it a highly sought after herb.

So are there different types of Ginseng?

Oh yes, Panax Oriental ginseng, primarily found in China, Korea and also Russia, considered to have 'heating' ginsenosides. Panax American ginseng, found in North America, considered to have 'cooling' ginsenosides. The roots, wild and cultivated, can be either white which indicates naturally dried, unprocessed root or red indicating heat and steam treated root, possibly mixed with other herbs during this process.

How can I take my Ginseng?

Take your pick! whole root (good if you're a rabbit), root slices, powder, capsules of powder, caplets, our favorite extracts, tinctures, root tea bags, instant teas, concentrated extracts for beverages. In extracts and tinctures ginseng is often coupled with other herbs for more well-rounded restorative effects, such as our ginkgo ginseng blend. Extracts such as ours use alcohol which is then distilled off to give a more potent mix than a tincture. Ginseng is usually taken for 2 to 3 weeks, then 1 week "rest" before resuming this pattern. Ginseng can be taken at anytime of day. Though we recommend before brekkie to aid digestion.

Why do people take Ginseng?

We regard Ginseng as a great tonic against everyday fatigue, and it may help in the training and recovery of athletes, my 10k time came down 4 mins after introducing ginseng into my diet so I'm happy but I'm not a proper athlete really. Ginseng, traditionally, has been used for all sorts of reasons from assuring mental well being to aiding libido. Ginseng has been used to boost energy levels, for its adaptogenic properties in helping people respond better to stress, to support the immune system and to balance and restore the body and mind.

When should I expect to feel the benefits of taking Ginseng?

The benefits vary from person to person because of height, weight, diet, lifestyle, sex and which football team you support . As with any dietary supplement, results don't happen overnight. Generally, people notice ginseng's effects after anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months.

Are there any precautions?

As with any dietary supplement, pregnant and lactating women should consult their health care practitioner before taking ginseng. Since ginseng is a natural stimulant, one should avoid taking other stimulants such as caffeine or other drugs.