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American ginseng

Of the real Ginseng (Panax) there are 2 varieties that are mainly used for medicinal purposes. The North American Ginseng is called Panax Quinquefolium (also called American ginseng) and the Asian Ginseng is called Panax CA Meyer (also called Panax Ginseng and Korean Ginseng).

Typically for all the ginseng species of the genus Panax are the presence of the so called ginsenosides; also the active components of American ginseng.

Introduction

American Ginseng is a medicinal plant, from which the root is harvested after a long and costly growing period of 4 to 6 years. Especially the dried ginseng root has been appreciated and used for thousands of years by the Indians in North America and for centuries in China to bring the body and mind back into the natural balance. American Ginsengs properties are both preventive and curative.

	Photo: mature ginseng berries containing the ginseng seeds.
	Photo: Fresh American ginseng roots, regarding their shape like a human body also called man root.

Application

Of the American ginseng plant mainly the dry roots are used for medicinal purposes.

In China also the dried leaves and the flower buds are consumed occasionally as a tea.

American Ginseng is mainly used internally as a food supplement and as a functional ingredient in food and (energy) drinks.

Increasingly the extract is added to cosmetic products for the healing of wounds and treating various skin problems.

Medicinal actions

The typical qualities of American ginseng are the so called adaptogenic properties: a phytocomplex ables to rebalance the function of the Central Nervous System together with the bodily functions through a direct improvement of the function of the tissue, organs and systems. This results again indirectly in the body in a positive effect on various diseases and complaints.

The most common applications of American Ginseng are:

reducing stress and tension;
increasing energy and improving stamina;
increasing immunity and resistance;
improvement of the general blood composition, blood circulation and because of that also good for the heart and blood vessels;
improving a general sense of well being;
as aphrodisiac and libido stimulator;
for irregular menstruation and menopause.

Industrial applications

The various components in American Ginseng have a strong antioxidant effect. These properties can be applied among others for the replacement of sulphite in the wine production and for preventing the colouring of prepared meat products.

Dosage

As an optimal daily dosage for an adult 1-2 grams of the dried root is advised. As a therapeutic dosage sometimes 4-5 grams per day is used. For a dosage of more than 10 grams per day it is recommended to do so only under supervision of a doctor.

Of American Ginseng extracts and/or extracts powders with an 8% ginsenoside content a daily dosage of 400-800 mg is advised. Of extract powders with a 20% ginsenoside content 150-300 mg is advised as an optimal dosage.

For an optimal therapeutic effect of products for external use it is advised to add 6-9% concentrated American ginseng extract powder with 20% ginsenoside content.

For a cosmetic effect it is recommended to apply a minimum of 4-8 gram of American Ginseng extract powder (20% ginsenoside content) per kilo product.

Contra-indications

American Ginseng is generally regarded as safe. It is not poisonous and as far as known does not have irreversible harmful side effects;
For an operation it is advised to inform your anaesthetist that American Ginseng is used;
Do not use without supervision of a doctor when blood thinners are used;
Do not use the American Ginseng when one has a (too) low blood pressure;
A strong overdose taken during a long period of time can lead to the so called Ginseng Abuse Syndrome. The symptoms are: sleeplessness, high blood pressure, light depression, tension in the muscles and puffiness (retaining too much fluid in your body).

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