Revered in the East in life and legend, ginseng (or Panax schinseng, chinese ginseng) is the best tonic for increasing energy and longevity. Over the past 50 years nearly 3000 scientific studies have demonstrated that it has the amazing ability to increase resistance to mental and physical stress whether caused by extremes of temperature, excessive exertion, illness, hunger, mental strain or emotional problems. Ginseng has been described as an “adaptogen”, a remedy that increases tolerance of adverse influences and has normalizing action in the body; while relaxing those feeling tense and anxious; it is stimulating to others who feel tired and lethargic.
Panax schinseng
To the Chinese, Panax schinseng is the “king of tonics”, the best remedy for all symptoms associated with chi deficiency, such as weakness, debility or simply old age. In the 1960s, Russian researchers showed that Siberian ginseng. Eleuthrococcus senticosus, improved immunity, enhanced nerve function and mental performance, increased strength and appetite, and improved blood flow through the arteries and brain.
American ginseng
American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, has been used by Native American for hundreds of years – The Seneca tribe gave it to the elderly, while the Penobscots prescribed it for increasing female fertility. Overall, American ginseng s more tranquillizing and cooling than Panax schinseng, although it still has a great application in relieving fatigue. It was valued Specifically in America for treating tuberculosis and more generally can be used to strengthen someone in the aftermath of high fever.
Ginseng root can be made into decoctions or into tonic wines and elixirs. It can be taken on a short-term basis, for 3-4 months, during a physically or mentally stressful period and also to speed recovery from illness or surgery. Ginseng can be taken over a longer period by the elderly to reduce the impact of the aging process.
Despite being considered a panacea, ginseng is not universally applicable. It should be avoid in acute inflammatory conditions and bronchitis as it can aggravate the symptoms.
