American Ginseng

American ginseng is native to the northeastern states and can still be found in the wild.  During the 17th and 18th centuries, the plant was over harvested to the point that it became almost extinct in some areas.  Care was not taken to leave plants for future harvesting and growth.  It was noted that even Daniel Boone harvested ginseng in Kentucky and Tennessee. 
American ginseng is said to have “cooling qualities” and is used to improve general health, as a stress reliever, strengthen internal organs and has adaptogenic qualities.   It is used for hypertension, headaches, anemia, lethargy, depression and for skin dryness. 

Chinese Ginseng

The first written information about ginseng comes from the Chinese.  It was reported as early as the first century AD in the first written Chinese Herbal encyclopedia.   The definition of ginseng states it was for boosting longevity and increased one’s vitality and endurance.  The next sentence states it will “enlighten the mind, and increase the wisdom”. Some Chinese herbalist also stated it was a strong aphrodisiac.  Ginseng is the single most important herb in the foundation of Chinese medicine.  Do its popularity and the belief of its healing power, the plant was almost eradicated from China.  The low supply of native ginseng, lead to the Chinese seeking ginseng in other regions of the world.

Korean Ginseng

Korea lies in an ideal location for the growth of ginseng.  The latitude allows for around 180 days of growth time, which is about 50-60 days more than other areas.  Ginseng requires 6 full years to be fully mature.  As it is growing, it pulls vital nutrients from the surrounding soil.  So as the ginseng is harvested, the remaining soil is depleted of these nutrients to produce more quality ginseng.  Therefore, the Koreans allow the area to sit and replenish for 13-15 years.  When a new “crop” is ready for harvest in another 5-6 years, they are of the highest quality and potency.
Korean ginseng is considered to have “heating” properties, is used as tonic for the blood, it is complementary and supplemental to the diet, and has stimulating qualities.   

Siberian Ginseng

Siberian ginseng is not actually a member of the ginseng family and does not contain any ginsenocides.