Home > Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine > Ginseng, American

Description

American ginseng, scientific name Panax quinquefolius, is a close relative of Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), and belongs to the Araliaceae family, which is the same as Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). It is a perennial herb, distinguished by its dark green leaves and clusters of red berries, that grows wild in eastern North America. The root of the plant is used medicinally, particularly in China, where traditional Chinese medicine places a high value on it.

Of the traditional ginsengs, American ginseng is probably the least used and researched variety. Americans have never been large consumers of American ginseng. In the past, American ginseng was an uncommon folk remedy used as a mild stimulant, tonic, and digestive aid. Most of this herb was exported to China, where most...