American Ginseng
(Panax quinquefolius)
Botanical Information
An upright three-pronged plant with up to five leaflets on each prong. Produces red berries in the fall. Grows in deep hardwood forests of the eastern U.S.
Working with American Ginseng
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Tinctures, tablets, capsules, teas, bulk herb, powder. Buy organically-grown or woods-grown as a first choice.
Affects
American ginseng is an excellent herb for people who have chronic fatigue, depression, and general weakness due to overwork and stress. It balances hormones and protects the adrenals. American ginseng is also useful for digestive weakness and irritable bowel syndrome. In Chinese medicine it is considered a “yin tonic.” It is less warming and stimulating than red ginsengs, which should not be taken by young people or when there are signs of heat, such as headaches and rashes.
American ginseng has a taste of SWEET, BITTER and a temperature of WARM.
Cautions
None noted.
