Ginseng has long been regarded as a precious medicinal herb, symbolizing longevity and health. Consequently, both ginseng and American ginseng have become popular gifts during festive occasions for elders and friends. Although both tonics have qi-boosting properties, they differ significantly in their medicinal properties and effects, and not everyone can use them. Here, a pharmacist helps explain how to consume these high-end tonics received during the festive season.

Different Body Types Require Different Ginseng

Ginseng, the root of the plant from the Araliaceae family, is mainly produced in Jilin Province, China, and North Korea. Depending on the processing methods, it can be divided into white ginseng and red ginseng.

American ginseng, also known as Panax quinquefolius, is a root from the same family, primarily grown in North America, including the United States and Canada. China began cultivating American ginseng in the 1970s.

Though both are from the same genus and share similar chemical components and pharmacological effects, their medicinal properties and effects vary greatly.

Ginseng: Slightly warm in nature, sweet and slightly bitter in taste. It is a key herb for qi-tonifying. It has functions of greatly replenishing vital energy, strengthening the heart, tonifying the spleen and lungs, calming the mind, and promoting fluid production.

American ginseng: Cool in nature, sweet in taste. It functions to nourish the lung yin, clear heat, and promote fluid production. Both are sweet and can boost qi and promote fluid production, but their differences lie in their thermal properties.

  • American ginseng is cool, thus clearing heat and nourishing yin while quenching thirst.
  • Ginseng is warm and slightly bitter, warming the yang and dispersing cold while drying dampness.
  • American ginseng focuses on nourishing yin, while ginseng focuses on aiding yang.
  • Ginseng is stronger in qi-boosting, whereas American ginseng is better at clearing heat and promoting fluid production.

Key Points: People with yin deficiency and qi deficiency should use American ginseng, while those with a cold constitution and qi deficiency should opt for ginseng.

Cardiovascular Protection and Anti-Cancer Benefits

Modern pharmacological studies show that both ginseng and American ginseng have broad pharmacological effects, involving the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, digestive system, immune system, anti-stress, anti-tumor, and metabolism.

  • Cardiovascular protection: Both contain ginsenosides that have cardiotonic effects, increasing myocardial contraction force and blood pressure while enhancing myocardial oxygen supply and efficiency.
  • American ginseng also contains pseudoginsenoside F11, which has a positive inotropic effect on heart function and a blood pressure-lowering effect, especially on diastolic pressure.
  • Blood sugar and lipid regulation: Both participate in glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. American ginseng is stronger in lowering blood lipids, whereas ginseng is more effective in lowering blood sugar.
  • Immune function enhancement: Both contain polysaccharides that have confirmed pharmacological effects on immune function, hematopoiesis, anti-tumor, anti-liver damage, and blood sugar reduction.
  • Other effects: Ginseng has a biphasic regulatory effect on the central nervous system, can combat fatigue, and has sedative properties, while improving cognitive function and protecting brain cells. American ginseng has weaker central excitatory effects but stronger sedative properties.

Precautions for Use

  • Ginseng: While beneficial, it is not suitable for everyone. High blood pressure patients should use it cautiously. It is not recommended for healthy individuals and adolescents, as it can cause precocious puberty and estrogen-like effects. Overuse can lead to central nervous system excitation and liver cell damage.
  • American ginseng: Though milder, improper use can also cause adverse reactions. It is not suitable for those with yang deficiency, cold stomach, or certain digestive and reproductive issues. It should also be avoided during acute infections with damp heat symptoms.

Ways to Consume Ginseng

  • Sliced or powdered: Take thin slices or powder daily.
  • Tea: Soak slices in hot water.
  • Decoction: Boil in water.
  • Tincture: Soak in alcohol.
  • Medicinal cuisine: Cook with meat or vegetables.

Avoid Certain Foods During Consumption

While taking ginseng or American ginseng, avoid foods with tannins like black beans, tea, coffee, radishes, and grapes as they reduce absorption.

Ginseng and American ginseng should not be used long-term but rather when feeling fatigued. Choose suitable health products carefully based on your needs to fully benefit from their health-promoting effects.