Ginseng is a precious traditional Chinese medicine, rich in ginsenosides, which have functions such as enhancing immunity, improving central nervous system function, protecting cardiovascular system, and promoting blood circulation. It is a good medicinal herb for health maintenance and gifting to friends and relatives. So, how long is the shelf life of ginseng?
How long is the shelf life of ginseng?
Ginseng, also known as American ginseng, Western ginseng, or Panax quinquefolius, contains ginsenosides, which are one of the main active ingredients in ginseng and the most significant substances in terms of physiological activity. Generally speaking, the regular shelf life of ginseng is 2-3 years. Ginseng should be kept away from moisture and can be stored for 3-5 years in a dry environment. If it is processed ginseng, you can refer to the packaging expiration date of the ginseng.
Can I still consume American ginseng that has been stored for 8 years?
It depends.
Excessive storage time of Chinese medicine may cause loss of active ingredients, resulting in reduced efficacy. Common problems with Chinese medicine include insect damage, mold, rot, discoloration, and changes in taste. Therefore, Chinese medicine does have a shelf life, and the longer it is stored, the better the effect. American ginseng stored for 8 years may have deteriorated. If the ginseng has deteriorated, not only will the efficacy be affected, but it may also cause discomfort after consumption.
Methods for storing ginseng
1. Conventional storage method
Seal the completely dried ginseng in a plastic bag to isolate it from the air, and store it in a cool place.
2. Low temperature storage method
Seal the ginseng and place it in the refrigerator. If the ginseng is not dry, it should be dried before placing it in the refrigerator.
3. Dry storage method
Add desiccants such as quicklime, charcoal, or silica gel to a container, then wrap the ginseng in paper and cover it tightly.
What to do with expired ginseng slices?
Expired and moldy ginseng may contain more bacteria and have reduced efficacy, so it is recommended to discard them directly. If the ginseng is expired but not moldy, it can be used to wash hair, soak feet, take a bath, etc. It is recommended to purchase ginseng rationally and reasonably to avoid unnecessary waste.
How to get the best effect from consuming ginseng?
Ginseng stewed with lean meat
Ingredients
20g ginseng, 250g lean meat, 1 slice of ginger, a little salt, 1 liter of warm water.
Instructions
1. Slice and wash the ginseng.
2. Blanch the lean meat with boiling water, then put it into the stewing pot with ginger.
3. Add 1 liter of warm water (about 4 bowls), cover and stew for 2 hours.
Ginseng, red date, and black chicken soup
Ingredients
Black chicken, red dates, ginseng, ginger.
Instructions
1. Wash the black chicken, cut it into pieces, and blanch it.
2. In a clay pot, add red dates, ginseng, ginger, and black chicken. Simmer over low heat for 2 hours.
Ginseng stewed lamb soup
Ingredients
Lamb, ginseng, Chinese yam, ginger, scallions, Sichuan peppercorns, cooking wine, salt, chicken essence.
Instructions
1. Wash the lamb and cut it into pieces. Slice the ginger and chop the scallions. Put a small amount of Sichuan peppercorns in a tea bag. Prepare a small amount of ginseng.
2. Put the lamb into the pot with water covering it, add some cooking wine, bring it to a boil, and then simmer for 5 minutes on low heat (note that the entire blanching process should not be covered).
3. Remove the blanched lamb, rinse it with running water, and drain.
4. Heat two teaspoons of oil in a clean pot, add ginger slices and scallion sections, stir-fry until fragrant, then add the blanched lamb and stir-fry with some cooking wine.
5. Add enough cold water to the pot, remove the foam after boiling, add the Sichuan peppercorn bag and ginseng, cover and cook over low heat. After boiling, simmer for an hour.
6. Peel the Chinese yam and cut it into diced pieces. Put it into the soup and simmer for another 15 minutes. Open the lid, add salt and a small amount of chicken essence, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
