Panax ginseng is one of the most esteemed herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its energizing and adaptogenic qualities.
Belonging to the Araliaceae family, Panax ginseng is native to the mountainous regions of East Asia, including Korea, northeastern China, and parts of Russia.
Ginseng is rich in active compounds known as ginsenosides (also called panaxosides), which are believed to be responsible for most of its therapeutic effects.
It is also known for its adaptogenic properties—substances that help the body resist stressors of various kinds, whether physical, chemical, or biological.
The use of Panax ginseng can be traced back over 2,000 years in East Asian traditional medicine. It has been a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as Ren Shen (人参).
Chinese herbalists historically used it to replenish energy (Qi), strengthen the immune system, improve mental clarity, and promote longevity.
🌱 Overview
Common Names: Asian Ginseng, Korean Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng
Family: Araliaceae
Parts Used: Root
Origin: East Asia (primarily Korea, China, and parts of Russia)
🔬 Key Constituents
Ginsenosides (saponins unique to Panax species)
Polysaccharides
Peptides
Polyacetylenes
Essential oils and B vitamins
⚕️ Traditional Uses
Energy & Stamina: Revitalizes fatigue and boosts endurance
Mental Performance: Enhances focus, memory, and cognitive function
Immune Support: Strengthens resistance to illness and stress
Stress & Adaptation: Acts as an adaptogen to help the body cope with physical and mental stress
Men’s Health: Traditionally used to support libido and sexual performance
🧠 Modern Research
Clinical trials have demonstrated that Panax ginseng may enhance cognitive function, support immune health, improve mood, and reduce fatigue, particularly in individuals with chronic illnesses or those undergoing treatment for conditions such as cancer.
Furthermore, research suggests that ginsenosides—the active compounds in Panax ginseng—exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects.
These properties make Ginseng a promising complementary agent in managing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
1. Panax Ginseng & Cardio-Metabolic Health/Type 2 Diabetes
Panax ginseng has garnered increasing scientific interest for its potential benefits in cardiometabolic health and type 2 diabetes management.
Research on Panax Ginseng has shown promising results in improving glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and overall cardiovascular health in individuals with type 2 diabetes and related conditions.
In addition to its effects on blood sugar control, panax ginseng has also been shown to have a positive impact on other cardiometabolic risk factors.
Research has demonstrated that panax ginseng may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve blood pressure, all of which are important for managing type 2 diabetes and preventing cardiovascular complications.
Furthermore, panax ginseng has been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and damage to cells and tissues.
This is particularly important for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as they are more susceptible to oxidative stress due to high blood sugar levels.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published 2022 investigated the overall effects of ginseng supplementation on improving cardiometabolic biomarkers among patients with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2DM).
The systematic review and meta-analysis concluded:
Our findings suggest that ginseng supplementation may be an effective strategy for improving cardiometabolic profiles in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM. – [1]
2. Ginseng & Fatigue
Fatigue is a common and often debilitating symptom associated with chronic diseases such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Clinical research has increasingly explored Panax ginseng as a potential natural remedy to alleviate disease-related fatigue.
Several randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that Panax ginseng can significantly reduce fatigue in patients with cancer-related fatigue and other chronic illnesses.
The adaptogenic properties of ginseng, primarily attributed to its active components called ginsenosides, appear to enhance energy metabolism and reduce oxidative stress, both of which are implicated in fatigue pathophysiology.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published 2022 evaluated the efficacy of ginseng supplements on disease-related fatigue in adult patients.
The systematic review and meta-analysis concluded:
The use of ginseng supplements is benefit for patients to reduce disease-related fatigue. – [2]
💊 Typical Preparations
Capsules and tablets (standardized extract)
Dried root slices (for teas or decoctions)
Tinctures and liquid extracts
Ginseng powders and health tonics
⚠️ Precautions
Panax ginseng is generally safe when used appropriately, but:
- May cause insomnia, nervousness, or elevated heart rate in sensitive individuals
- Should not be used continuously for long periods without breaks
- May interact with blood pressure, diabetes, or anticoagulant medications
- Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare professional
🌿Different Types Of Ginseng
Panax ginseng is classified into different types based on its cultivation methods, geographical origins, and preparation processes.
The three main types of Panax ginseng are Asian ginseng, Korean red ginseng, and American ginseng.
Each of these varieties has unique characteristics that differentiate them from one another in terms of chemical composition, potency, and traditional uses.
While all types of ginseng belong to the same general family, there are notable differences between them.
1. Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Asian ginseng, often referred to as Chinese ginseng or simply Panax ginseng, is native to the mountainous regions of East Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and parts of Siberia.
It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years, where it is prized for its restorative properties.
The root of the Asian ginseng plant is the part that is used medicinally, and it is typically harvested after about four to six years of growth, as the root becomes most potent during this period.
The main active compounds in Asian ginseng are ginsenosides, which are believed to contribute to its health-promoting effects.
These compounds are responsible for its adaptogenic qualities, helping the body cope with physical and mental stress.
In TCM, Asian ginseng is often used to strengthen the body’s vital energy (Qi), improve stamina, and boost the immune system. It is also used to treat fatigue, enhance cognitive function, and improve sexual health.
Asian ginseng is considered “warming” in nature, which means it can increase yang energy in the body. It is often recommended for people who feel weak, fatigued, or lacking in vitality.
2. Korean Red Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Korean red ginseng is a specific variety of Panax ginseng that has undergone a unique processing method.
After the root is harvested, it is steamed and dried, which gives it a reddish color and alters its chemical structure.
The steaming process is believed to enhance the potency of the root, making it more beneficial for certain therapeutic purposes.
Korean red ginseng is typically grown in Korea, although it can also be found in other parts of East Asia.
The steaming process is thought to increase the bioavailability of ginsenosides and other beneficial compounds, making Korean red ginseng particularly potent.
It is highly regarded for its ability to improve energy levels, boost stamina, and reduce fatigue.
Like Asian ginseng, it is used as an adaptogen to help the body manage stress, but it is often considered more powerful due to the steaming process.
In traditional Korean medicine, red ginseng is used to enhance physical and mental performance, improve circulation, and support the immune system.
It has also been explored for its potential cardiovascular benefits, with some research suggesting that it can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and support overall heart health.
Additionally, Korean red ginseng is often used to improve sexual function, particularly in men, where it may enhance libido and treat erectile dysfunction.
3. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
Unlike Asian ginseng and Korean red ginseng, American ginseng is a distinct variety of ginseng with its own unique characteristics.
Native to North America, particularly in the forests of the United States and Canada, American ginseng is considered to have a cooler, more “yin” nature compared to the warmer “yang” qualities of Asian and Korean ginseng.
The root of American ginseng is the medicinal part used, and it is typically harvested after 4 to 6 years of growth, similar to its Asian counterparts.
American ginseng is known for its more calming and relaxing properties, making it a popular choice for individuals looking to reduce stress, improve mental focus, and enhance relaxation.
While it shares some of the same active compounds as Asian ginseng, such as ginsenosides, the composition of these compounds in American ginseng is different, contributing to its unique effects.
🌐 Fun Facts
The word “Panax” comes from the Greek word “panacea,” meaning “all-healing,” reflecting the wide range of benefits historically attributed to this powerful root.
Wild Panax ginseng takes at least 5–6 years to reach maturity, and the older the root, the more prized and potent it is considered.
Some wild roots over 100 years old have been found and sold for tens of thousands of dollars.
References
[2] Efficacy of ginseng supplements on disease-related fatigue: A systematic review and meta-analysis