Ginseng, deer antler, and Cordyceps sinensis are all precious medicinal herbs that are excellent nourishing supplements. Among the many supplements, ginseng is moderately priced and rich in nutrients, making it the preferred choice for most people. Although ginseng is beneficial, it is not suitable for everyone, as many people's constitutions are not appropriate for taking ginseng for nourishment.
I. Classification of Ginseng
1. Ginseng can be divided into three main categories based on its growing environment: wild ginseng, transplanted ginseng, and cultivated ginseng. Among these, wild ginseng is the most rare. Transplanted ginseng is created by moving the seeds (seedlings) of wild ginseng to an environment suitable for its growth and then harvesting it after several decades of natural growth. Its effects are similar to wild ginseng, and its quantity is also quite scarce. Cultivated ginseng is the most common type available on the market.
2. Depending on the processing method, ginseng can also be divided into raw sun-dried ginseng and red ginseng. Raw sun-dried ginseng is a variety grown in a cultivated environment for five to six years before being harvested and processed. It is processed from fresh ginseng through high-temperature drying or natural drying. Red ginseng is further divided into Chinese red ginseng and Korean red ginseng. Generally, ginseng is first steamed until it turns red and then pressed into different shapes using a mold.
3. Another variety of ginseng is American ginseng, also known as Yang Shen, Western ginseng, or Qi Qi Shen. Its place of origin is northern United States and Canada.
II. Indications and Contraindications for Consuming Ginseng
Different types of ginseng have different effects and benefits. Generally, American ginseng has a cool nature and is typically used for heat-related syndromes, making it more suitable for patients with conditions like high blood pressure or constipation. In contrast, ginseng (Panax ginseng) is warm in nature and is suitable for cold-related syndromes. Among them, raw sun-dried ginseng is a mild supplement, mainly used for symptoms of both qi and yin deficiency, such as fatigue, spontaneous sweating, weak digestion, loss of appetite, heart insufficiency, and thirst. Red ginseng is a warming supplement with a strong aroma, slightly bitter and sweet, and its functions lean towards warming and nourishing. It is mainly used for conditions with qi deficiency accompanied by cold signs. However, it should not be used for excess heat syndromes, such as cardiovascular diseases or during the recovery period from a serious illness. If one supplements blindly without understanding their physical condition, the effects can be counterproductive. For example, a person with a heat syndrome who takes warm raw sun-dried ginseng may increase their body's excitability and worsen their condition.
When people think of ginseng, the first thing that comes to mind is longevity and immortality. Some middle-aged and elderly people take ginseng blindly, only to find that not only does it not have a health-preserving or therapeutic effect, but it can also lead to adverse reactions such as nosebleeds, body-wide allergies, dizziness, or even shock. American ginseng and ginseng (Panax ginseng) both belong to the category of tonics, and their chemical components do not have an essential difference. They both have various effects such as strengthening the body, anti-fatigue, lowering blood sugar, calming the mind, and enhancing immunity. However, it is important to distinguish between them in application. Patients with heat syndromes should choose American ginseng, while patients with cold syndromes should choose raw sun-dried ginseng or red ginseng. If you need to use ginseng for nourishment and conditioning, it is best to do so under the guidance and advice of a doctor.
III. Precautions
It is important to remind everyone here that children should not take ginseng-based supplements. Some parents, fearing their children may lack nutrition, make ginseng soup for them as a supplement. Children are in a stage of growth and development and naturally need a large intake of nutrients. If they consume ginseng soup, it can interfere with the normal function of their digestive system, affecting their normal metabolism and nutritional balance. Therefore, one should also be cautious about using ginseng for nourishment, otherwise it can be not only unhelpful but also harmful.