Ginseng

Ginseng root is a nutritious herb that has been used for centuries as an energy tonic as well as to treat a variety of health problems. Scientists believe that Ginseng helps the brain produce more endorphins that help to balance the physical and emotional stress hormones secreted from the adrenal glands.

Ginseng - the most extensively studied herb on earth! Dr. Lin Yutang, a Chinese research scientist who spent a lifetime learning about ginseng, summed up his work by saying that "The magic tonic and building qualities of ginseng are the most enduring, the most energy-giving, restorative qualities known to mankind, yet it is distinguished by the slowness and gentleness of its action". More modern research has been done on ginseng than all other herbs combined. At the turn of the 21st century ginseng is being intensively studied by athletic performance experts as well as medical science.

It’s been around for thousands of years. Every traditional healing culture in the world has a ginseng or ginseng-type plant in it’s medicine chest. Daily ginseng was a necessary matter of life throughout all of China’s long history. At the turn of the 20th century, virtually every Chinese person used ginseng to some extent for their well being, especially as a wellness tonic. Ginseng was also highly esteemed by every Native American culture.

In general plant researchers agree that ginseng is a powerful adaptogen. An adaptogen is a nontoxic substance that helps to increase resistance against stressful influences of a physical, chemical, or biological nature; and in general, it has a normalizing effect. These attributes are believed to be achieved through ginseng’s ability to stimulate functions that regulate the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and endocrine glands. Ginseng helps improve energy levels, vitality, alertness, and mental clarity, while relieving or eliminating fatigue, mood swings, and even PMS (premenstrual syndrome) in women.

Ginseng contains a number of compounds which seem to be unique to this plant. Many of these unique elements seem to have a strong effect on the adrenal glands, which rest on the top of the kidneys. The function of the adrenal glands is to secrete hormones which are used to ward off both physical and emotional stress. Scientists believe that it is this effect on the adrenal glands that is responsible for the stress fighting power of ginseng. Ginseng also contains substances called ginsenosides, chemical compounds believed to have potent properties to prevent cancer.