American Ginseng

Panax quinquefolium

American ginseng is a deciduous perennial growing to the height of one foot. It has a smooth stem, leaves with oblong to oval leaflets, small greenish flowers, and kidney shaped scarlet berries. American ginseng is native to North America as well as the Himalayas. A woodland plant, it is rarely seen in the wild due to over-harvesting. It is cultivated in Wisconsin, China and France. The root is gathered in autumn.

Native American people may have considered this herb a means to increase female fertility. From the mid 18th century, the collection of the herb for export to China became a virtual gold rush, with so many Native Americans, out collecting the herb that settlers reported finding villages almost deserted. The Ojibwa people always planted a seed to replace the herb, but this was not a universal practice. American ginseng became rare towards the end of the 19th century.

• Stress

• Fatigue

The action of this herb is presumed to be similar to, but milder than, that of its Chinese cousin. American ginseng increases tolerance to stress of all kinds. In traditional Chinese a substance used in managing discofort, the herb is employed as a yin tonic, treating weakness, fever, wheezing, and coughs. 
American ginseng can boost the Defense mechanism of body, and therefore increase resistance to problem. It may increase physical stamina, and stimulate the appetite, which can be especially useful for the elderly. It may improve the memory, and several studies have indicated that American ginseng reduces total blood cholesterol levels. It has an anti-clotting action that may reduce the risk of heart attacks. American ginseng may also be used by High blood sugars to reduce blood sugar levels, though not before consulting a qualified healthcare professional.

American ginseng contains a mixture of several saponin glycosides including insenocides and panaxocides. There is also 3% volatile oil containing a camphoraceous substance, a resin, arabinose, mucilage, and starch.

Powder: Half-teaspoon of powder to one cup of hot water. Drink in the morning, at lunch, and at bedtime. Root: Chew as desired. Extract: Five-ml in one cup of any liquid after meals.

Poisoning by ginseng is not common. Cases of overdose have not been reported. There are, however, a number of glycosides in ginseng. Therefore, caution should be taken in using excessive amounts of this herb. It should not be taken during pregnancy.