Ginseng

Panax qumquefolius Araliaceae

The chines disocovered the tonic effect of ginseng thousands of years ago. The perennial's tuber like root resembles a human body- and in chines , ginseng means root man . The spices P. quinquefolius is cultivated in the American Midwest and exported and exported all over the world.

Parts used

Constituents

The source' of the root's tonic propertlh an terpenes called ginsenosides;, In American ginseng the major ginsenoside present is Rbl

Medicinal uses

Ginseng's botanical name of panx comes, from panacea, a Greek word meaning all-healing, and the root has long been used as a cure all. Ginseng is renowned for its energy giving properties. It is thought to combat fatigue and is often used as a stimulant.The root has been the subject of numerous experiments. Research is promising: ginseng appears to have several beneficial effects on humans.It is an anabolic substance and stimulates the synthesis of proteins. And Italian clinicaltrials conducted in 1986 found that ginseng improved mental performance on several levels.

Many alternative practitioners regard ginseng as a valuable way of relieving both physical and mental stress. It is prescribed for nervous exhaustion and to help recovery during convalescence. It may be taken on its own or combined with other stimulant plants such as tea and cola, and with vitamins.

Ginseng may be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. In 1987 Chinese studies found that ginseng stimulates insulin release, and a 1988 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that ginseng increases the number of insulin receptors in bone marrow.

CAUTIONS

Cultivation

Sow seeds in spring. Ginseng likes a cool climate, a shady position and a warm, damp, rich, well-drained soil.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE

For internal use

TO TREAT stress, nervous exhaustion CAPSULES (SOOmg) Take 2 capsules with breakfast and 2 with a midday meal. INFUSION Add 1 dessertspoon dried root to a cup of boiling water. Steep for 3-5 minutes. Drink 2-4 cups a day.