Korean ginseng is considered the most potent and popular variety in the world, with an estimated 6 million American users who have tried it at least once, according to “The Way of Chinese Herbs.” In traditional Chinese medicine, red Panax is believed to stimulate yang energy, which improves circulation, increases blood flow, revitalizes the body, and aids recovery from weakness after illness.
In Asia, red Panax is regularly taken to increase vitality and stamina, improve work efficiency, combat fatigue, strengthen the immune system and enhance libido. In Western countries, it is taken more sporadically as an energy booster, although a review article published in a 2005 edition of “Phytotherapy Research” concluded that herbal adaptogens, such as ginseng, may benefit people diagnosed with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease by reducing pain levels, boosting energy and cognition, and restoring sleep cycles.
Korean ginseng is harvested after six years, at which time it is steam-cured before drying. This process produces reddish-brown roots and preserves the plant’s active compounds, called ginsenosides.
