DIY Beauty: American ginseng energizing face tonic

Ginseng has been used in traditional medicine in this part of the world as a tonic and elixir.  This is American ginseng, which is said to relieve heatiness, strengthen immune system, support cognitive functions, as well as improve stamina and vitality.  Because I’ve come across various cosmetic products containing ginseng extract as an anti-aging ingredient and so out of fun and curiosity, I’ve been trying to use it as a sort of ‘energizing tonic’ for the face.  Okay, nice choice of word there but it’s really nothing more than a toner.  Heh. 

Stimulate cellular renewal
Interestingly, I read that ingesting ginseng is good for those with acne but I’m not too sure.  I tried ingesting it during the period when I was having acne and it didn’t help me.  In terms of topical benefits, various sources suggested that ginseng detoxifies the skin and rids it off the free radicals, and topical use leaves your skin healthy and glowing.  Since it is an antioxidant and tonic, ginseng can also stimulate cellular renewal and boost blood circulation.  So it might be great as a toner to “energize” the skin. 

Simple infusion
As we consume an infusion of ginseng slices quite regularly at home, so what I do is to pat some of the infusion on my face, after cleansing and prior to moisturizing.  I don’t use this regularly, just as and when I remember.  I haven’t noticed much of a difference but I understand that ginseng can help to balance the oil gland production and that could be why it’s said to be beneficial for those with acne. 

Do you like the taste of ginseng and have you tried using ginseng on your skin? 

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Comments

I am not a big fan of ginseng but I do take it once a while, I remember seeing abundance of ginseng skincare when I was in korea, I bought a tube of ginseng sleeping mask and also sheet masks.  I don’t see any significant difference other than feeling good after using it. 

Not sure if I have it right but I think several forms of Ginseng are considered “heaty” (http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/health/view/295143/1/.html) and those might exacerbate acne, since many forms of acne in the Chinese belief are caused by heaty bodies/systems 🙂

Yes, some are considered heaty while others relieve heatiness so if you purchase them for ingesting purposes, it’s best to ask.  I can never remember which is which.  Think Korean ginseng can be heaty.  Remember someone said the hubby ate too much of it while in Korea and had a bleeding nose as a result. 

I agree with her – Sesame, I’m always inspired by how your entries are bursting with curiosity and full of new and meaningful content.  For a young woman like me you are sharing so much of your womanly wisdom!  Thank you so much for your good work.