For over 5,000 years the roots of the ginseng tree has been valued in traditional Chinese medicine.  The actual term ginseng comes from the genus Panax;  which means “all-heal” in Greek.  The two Panax herbs that are commonly used are known as Asian or Korean ginseng.  You shouldn’t confuse this with Siberian ginseng, which isn’t actually ginseng at all.

So now you know where ginseng is;  what does it do?Ginseng is completely different from the stimulant caffeine which stimulates the central nervous system.  Unlike coffee, ginseng doesn’t give you a jolt — it boosts energy slowly, safely, and comfortably.  Ginseng is considered to be an adaptogen - a natural substance that improves your body’s resistance to physical/environmental stress.

This enhances the immune system.

Other uses for ginseng my include increasing physical performance, as well as improving coordination, increasing the potency of sexual intimacy, and reducing cholesterol levels.  There is also very solid evidence that ginseng can help your immune system and fight off infections.

Gingseng is available as a capsule, tea, and power.  It’s considered very safe, but occasionally there are some possible side effects.  At higher doses, ginseng has the potential to increase your heart rate, cause nausea, headaches, restlessness, and make you have trouble sleeping.