In the hot summer, the human body, stimulated by high temperatures, experiences accelerated metabolism, increased energy consumption, reduced sleep, and decreased appetite, making one prone to fatigue and a weakened constitution. For those who lack adaptability to high temperatures, ginseng is an excellent remedy to combat summer-related ailments. As long as the tongue coating is not white, thick, or yellow and greasy, and there is no sign of heat, one can take ginseng for nourishment. This is the most effective way to enhance resistance and is known as "summer conditioning." This is especially beneficial for patients with chronic diseases that tend to flare up in the cold winter, such as bronchitis and asthma. Taking ginseng in the summer can strengthen the body's foundation, improve immune function, and prevent the recurrence of winter chronic illnesses, achieving the therapeutic effect of "treating winter diseases in summer."
Summer is the peak season for the growth and reproduction of various pathogenic bacteria, making people susceptible to acute infectious diseases such as Japanese encephalitis, acute gastroenteritis, and hepatitis. During the recovery phase of these diseases, symptoms such as low-grade fever, poor appetite, dry mouth, a red tongue, and general weakness often persist. At this time, taking ginseng can nourish yin, replenish qi, support the body's vital energy, and regulate the spleen. For those who are frequently ill, have a deficiency of qi and a weak constitution, experience excessive sweating and shortness of breath upon exertion, dizziness, fatigue, poor appetite, insomnia, and vivid dreams, consuming ginseng can also strengthen the constitution, stimulate the appetite, and prevent summer-related illnesses.
The use of ginseng in the summer should be selective. Generally, raw sun-dried ginseng, American ginseng, or tail-skin ginseng can be chosen. The medicinal properties of these types of ginseng are relatively mild and are more suitable for the average patient or the elderly and weak. However, patients with excess heat syndrome but without a deficiency of vital energy should not take ginseng.