Ginseng goodness!

Chinese ginseng is the most potent and pricey. It grows wild int eh remote mountains of Manchuria and is believed to prolong life through regular consumption. The Korean variety is considered 'heaty'. It is said to be effective in enhancing blood circulation and physical energy. American ginseng, as it name indicates, is indigenous to tech United States. Said to be 'cooling'. It is prescribed for weakness of heart, indigestion, dry throat, fatigue, menopausal depression and acne.

A 1985 research review by Japanese Pharmacologist said that ginseng promotes homeostasis by maintaining steady blood pressure, blood sugar and energy levels. It's effectiveness is attributed to saponins, a class of chemicals found in many herbs, which have therapeutic properties. Research in China and Japan suggests that saponins protect the heart and liver. They have antioxidant effects, which may account for the longevity claim of ginseng.

Kanazawa Medical University in Japan reported that saponins were able to return human liver cancer cells to normal in a test-tube. Beside saponins which are found in the outer layer of the root, ginseng also contains amino acids, chlorine, carbohydrates, ascorbic acid and vihydrates, ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex. The quality of ginseng is usually determined by the cotnent of the saponins. The more the better. As the saponin content increase with age, only plants six years and older have roots with therapeutic value.

General, wild ginseng is considered superior to the cultivated variety. Chinese medicine shops sell them in several grades. The larger the root, the older it is, the more potent and of course, the more costly. Buy from reputable medicine shops to ensure authenticity. Ask the herbalist how to prepare the root to get the most of its goodness.