How to eat wild ginseng?

1. What is wild ginseng?

a.Types and origins: ‘Semi-wild ginseng’ growing in forests

• Forest ginseng is ginseng that is artificially sown in natural forests and grows naturally without human intervention. It has a growth cycle of at least 15 years and is similar in appearance and efficacy to wild ginseng, but is more abundant and more affordable.
• Core origin: Changbai Mountain and the Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains in Northeast China, where the primeval forests have deep humus soil and a cool climate, which is most suitable for the growth of wild ginseng.

b.Properties and effects

• Properties: Sweet and slightly bitter in taste, slightly warm in nature, stronger than garden ginseng in replenishing energy, but milder than red ginseng, less likely to cause heatiness, suitable for long-term health maintenance.
• Core benefits:​
  Replenishes vital energy: Relieves fatigue and shortness of breath caused by long-term fatigue and insufficient qi and blood;​
  Boosts immunity: Especially suitable for people with weak constitutions who are prone to colds;​
  Calms the mind and aids sleep: Helps improve stress, insomnia and frequent dreams.

The saponin content of wild ginseng is higher than that of ordinary cultivated ginseng, making it more effective as a tonic, but it has a mild nature, making it an ideal choice for ‘slow and steady rather than rapid and intense’ tonification.

2. These people are most suitable for eating wild ginseng.

1. People suffering from long-term fatigue: office workers and students often stay up late, are under a lot of pressure, and feel tired every day. Taking wild ginseng can slowly restore their vitality.
2. People with weak constitutions: Elderly people, postpartum women, or people recovering from serious illnesses who lack energy are suitable for mild tonic treatment with wild ginseng.
3. People with poor immunity: People who are prone to colds during seasonal changes and recover slowly after illness can strengthen their body's ‘defensive capabilities’ by taking wild ginseng regularly.

3. Five classic ways to eat wild ginseng, simple and effective

1. Slice and steep in water (most convenient)
   Method: Take 3-5 slices of ginseng, steep in warm water at around 80°C, let sit for 5 minutes, then drink. You can steep repeatedly until there is no taste left, then eat the ginseng slices.
   Advantages: Time-saving and effortless, suitable for drinking at work or at home.
2.  Stewed soup (most nourishing)
   Ingredients: 1 root of wild ginseng (sliced), half an old hen, 3 red dates, 10 goji berries. Blanch the chicken and stew it with the other ingredients. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 1.5 hours. Add salt to taste.
   Advantages: The soup is fresh and delicious, suitable for nourishment in autumn and winter, and suitable for the whole family to drink (children should drink less).
3. Powdered form (easily absorbed)
   Preparation: Grind wild ginseng into a fine powder, take 1-2 grams each time, and take with warm water or porridge, once in the morning and once in the evening.
   Advantages: Easy to carry, fast absorption of active ingredients, suitable for people who travel frequently.
4. Soaked wine (suitable for those who enjoy drinking)
   Preparation: Place 1-2 roots of wild ginseng in 500 ml of high-proof white wine, seal and soak for 1 month. Drink 10-15 ml each time, no more than once a day.
   Note: Not suitable for those with high blood pressure or liver disease. Pregnant women and children should not drink this.
5. Steamed (retains the most nutrients)
   Preparation: Slice the wild ginseng, place it in a bowl with a small amount of water, cover, and steam for 30 minutes. Eat the ginseng slices together with the broth.
   Advantages: Retains the most nutrients and is suitable for people who need to focus on regulating their bodies.

4. Three key reminders for eating wild ginseng

1. Control dosage: Do not exceed 3 grams per day (approximately 5-8 tablets). Excessive intake may cause palpitations and insomnia.
2. Progress gradually: Start with 1 gram on the first day and observe your body's reaction. If you feel fine, slowly increase the dosage.
3. Avoid contraindications: Do not take with radishes or strong tea (as these will affect absorption). Avoid spicy and cold foods while taking ginseng.

The value of ginseng lies in its natural growth method. Only by consuming it correctly can you truly reap the benefits of this gift from the forest. Which method have you tried? Please share your experiences in the comments section.