Ginseng - the king of herbs

Ginseng has been called the king of herbs in China. It has been revered there for some 7,000 years for its ability to boost failing energy levels in people who have been weakened by serious or chronic illness and to restore vitality in the elderly. The first Chinese Emperor offered soldiers the same weight of silver as the wild ginseng they brought him.

Ginseng's fame rests on its ability as a general tonic that helps people adapt to a range of difficult circumstances, including illness and stress of all kinds. Modern research has shown that ginseng can improve alertness and concentration while simultaneously inducing a feeling of relaxation and well-being.

Not all ginseng is the same
There are three main types of ginseng: Chinese and Korean ginsengs collectively referred to as Asian ginseng, Siberian ginseng and the gentler acting American ginseng. The Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) are close cousins.

American ginseng was used historically by native American Indians for reducing pain in childbirth, increasing fertility (although it is contraindicated in pregnancy), treating shortness of breath, curing nose bleeds and upset stomachs, as well as increasing mental alertness.

Siberian ginseng is, in fact, not a true ginseng but a thorny shrub that goes under the Latin name of Eleutherococcus senticosus. It is more useful for maintaining good health than treating illness. It contain triterpenoid saponins known as eleutherosides, some of which are similar in structure to the saponins found in Panax ginsengs. Like Chinese ginseng, it stimulates stamina and resistance to stress. Its tonic effect particularly supports the adrenal glands, helping people to withstand heat, cold, infection and other physical stresses. Athletes have shown up to nine per cent improvement in stamina when taking Siberian ginseng. Russian studies suggest it can reduce susceptibility to colds and `flu by as much as 40per cent.

Although Siberian ginseng is often regarded as an inexpensive substitute for Korean ginseng, many researchers consider it to have a higher activity and wider range of therapeutic uses. Some users prefer it to Korean ginseng as they find it more stimulating, while others find it too strong and prefer to take the gentler American ginseng.

Look for quality
The wild root of Panax ginseng is almost unobtainable but good quality cultivated ginseng is available. However, poor quality or adulterated products are common. Price is an indication of quality so in general it's worth looking for a more costly product from a reputable company.