In Asian medicine, the herb is used as an aphrodisiac, and is considered a remedy for indigestion, heart problems, and urinary disturbances. It has traditionally been used by elderly Asians to boost physical and mental vitality. Only the root is medicinal. The energizing ingredients in Ginseng are a set of compounds called ginsenosides. A second group of compounds called panaxanes appear to reinforce the immune system and help keep blood sugar levels under control.
Panax ginseng is native to China, but is also cultivated in Korea, Japan and Russia.
An almost identical plant, Panax quinquefolius , grows in the United States and was, in fact, exported to China during the 18th Century. At customary dosage levels, Ginseng appears to have no side effects. There are no known interactions with Ginseng. If You are Pregnant or Breastfeeding Because Ginseng's many active ingredients have not been tested in pregnant and nursing women, use during pregnancy is not recommended. How to Prepare To make a tea, pour boiling water over 3 grams of chopped root, steep for 5 to 10 minutes, and strain.