From types to eating methods, understand the ‘king of herbs’ in one article.

1. A comprehensive overview of the ginseng family: understanding common varieties

• Wild ginseng: Grown in deep mountain forests without human intervention, it has a long growth cycle and is rare, making it a precious variety of ginseng. It has powerful effects and is suitable for treating severe qi and blood deficiency.
• Cultivated ginseng: Grown artificially, it has a shorter growth cycle and is more affordable than wild ginseng, making it the most common type of ginseng in daily life.
• Red Ginseng: Made by steaming fresh ginseng and then drying it in the sun or by heating. It has a warm nature and stronger qi-tonifying effects, suitable for those who are prone to coldness and have severe qi and blood deficiency.  
• White Ginseng (Sugar-Processed Ginseng): Made by processing fresh ginseng with sugar, it has a sweet taste and a mild nature, with relatively weaker qi-tonifying effects. It is suitable for first-time ginseng users or those with a weak constitution who are concerned about overheating. ​
• American ginseng: Native to North America, it has a cool nature and can replenish qi while clearing heat, making it suitable for people who are prone to heatiness and often stay up late. ​
• Korean ginseng: Mainly produced in the Korean Peninsula, it is processed using a special technique, has a hot nature, and has a strong qi-replenishing effect, making it suitable for people who need to quickly replenish their energy.

Different types of ginseng vary in nature and efficacy due to differences in growing environments and processing methods. When selecting ginseng, it is important to consider your own physical constitution.

2. A comprehensive overview of the benefits of ginseng: these are the benefits you should know about

• Boosting energy and revitalising the spirit: This is the primary benefit of ginseng. For those who frequently feel fatigued, weak, and lack energy, consuming an appropriate amount of ginseng can quickly replenish physical strength and revitalise the spirit.
• Enhancing immunity: The various components in ginseng can help regulate the immune system, strengthening the body's resistance and reducing the likelihood of illness.
• Balancing the Body: For those with weak spleen and stomach function or poor digestion, ginseng can help strengthen the spleen and stomach; it also has a certain auxiliary regulatory effect for those with poor heart function.
• Anti-Fatigue: Whether fatigue is caused by physical or mental labour, ginseng can alleviate it to some extent, helping individuals maintain a good state of health.

3. There are rules for eating ginseng, and eating it this way is more effective.

• Brew and drink: Slice the ginseng, take 3-5 slices and place them in a cup, pour boiling water over them, steep for a few minutes, then drink. This method can be repeated multiple times. It is simple and convenient, making it suitable for daily health maintenance.
• Simmer in soup: Add a few slices of ginseng when simmering chicken or pork ribs. This not only enhances the flavour of the soup but also provides nourishing benefits. For example, ginseng chicken soup is a popular choice for those seeking to nourish their bodies.
• Chew and swallow: Slice the ginseng and place the slices directly in your mouth, chewing slowly before swallowing. This method allows the active components of ginseng to be absorbed more effectively.
• Powdered consumption: Grind the ginseng into powder, take a small amount each time, and dissolve in warm water for consumption. This method is convenient for carrying and taking.

4. Precautions for consuming ginseng: avoid these pitfalls

• Control intake: Although ginseng is beneficial, it should not be consumed in excessive amounts, as this may lead to symptoms such as heatiness, insomnia, and palpitations. Generally, daily intake should not exceed 3–5 grams.  
• Consider your constitution: Individuals with a hot constitution or prone to heatiness should limit consumption of red ginseng and Korean ginseng, which have a warming nature; those with a cold constitution should exercise caution when consuming American ginseng, which has a cooling nature. ​
• Special populations should use with caution: Pregnant women, children, individuals with hypertension, and those with a tendency to bleed should consult a doctor before consuming ginseng. ​
• Avoid consuming with certain foods: When consuming ginseng, avoid drinking tea or eating radishes simultaneously, as this may impair the efficacy of ginseng.

Summary: Ginseng is an excellent tonic, but only by understanding its types, effects, methods of consumption, and precautions can its benefits be fully realised. We hope this article will help everyone gain a correct understanding of ginseng so that it can truly serve our health.