Korean Red Ginseng Root
红参 · Hóngshēn
Panax ginseng
Family: Araliaceae · Part used: Root (6+ year, steam-cured) · Origin: Changbai Mountains, Jilin, China
Nature
Warm
Flavor
Sweet, slightly bitter
Meridian
Lung, Spleen, Heart
Known as the 'King of Herbs', ginseng has been treasured for over two thousand years as the supreme tonic of primal qi. Our red ginseng roots from the Changbai Mountains are steam-cured in the traditional Korean method, which concentrates the ginsenosides and gives the root its characteristic amber color and warming, invigorating nature.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Powerfully tonifies primal (yuan) qi
- •Tonifies spleen and lung qi
- •Generates fluids and stops thirst
- •Calms the spirit and benefits the heart qi
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Profound fatigue and collapse of qi
- •Shortness of breath and weak pulse
- •Poor appetite from spleen deficiency
- •Palpitations and insomnia
- •Excessive thirst from fluid depletion
- •Cold limbs
📖 Usage & Dosage
3–9 g in decoction, simmered gently (often in a double boiler) for 30–60 minutes; or 1–2 g daily as powder. Avoid tea, radish, and coffee around dosing by tradition.
🍵 Classic Recipes
Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)
Whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng 10 g, jujube and garlic, simmered 2 hours.
Ginseng Tea
Simmer 5 g sliced ginseng in 500 ml water for 30 minutes; drink warm in the morning.
🔬 Modern Research
Ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1, and compound K are extensively studied for adaptogenic effects on fatigue, cognition, and physical performance. Randomized trials suggest benefits for mental fatigue and glucose metabolism.
⚠️ Contraindications
Avoid in heat conditions, high blood pressure without guidance, and during acute illness. May interact with stimulants, anticoagulants, and diabetes medication.
