When it comes to tonics, ginseng is definitely at the forefront. Red ginseng, prince ginseng, codonopsis pilosula, American ginseng, and even carrots are referred to as "little ginseng". So what's the difference between these ginseng varieties? And what is red ginseng?
Red Ginseng
Red ginseng is actually ginseng that has been processed and its medicinal properties have changed. After ginseng is soaked, washed, sorted, steamed, dried, and roasted, it is called red ginseng.
Benefits of Red Ginseng
Overall, red ginseng has the effects of tonifying qi, nourishing yin, moisturizing the lungs, and invigorating the spleen. Compared to ginseng, red ginseng has a warmer medicinal property and is more powerful. Specifically, it has the following benefits:
1. Improves brain vitality, combats fatigue and aging, and enhances physical strength.
2. Improves symptoms of physical weakness such as asthma, shortness of breath, chronic cough, and insomnia.
3. Tonifies kidney qi, improves frequent urination, excessive dreaming, and thirst.
4. Improves cardiovascular diseases, suitable for people with hypertension, arteriosclerosis, anemia, etc.
5. Improves symptoms of poor appetite, cold limbs, and spontaneous sweating caused by spleen deficiency.
6. Alleviates menopausal symptoms in women such as irritability, depression, and fatigue.
It is generally recommended for people with excessive blood loss, diarrhea, and chronic illness-induced qi deficiency to use red ginseng.
Side Effects of Red Ginseng
Red ginseng has the ability to enhance brain function and has a certain excitability on the nervous system. Therefore, after continuous use of red ginseng, insomnia, depression, and weight loss may occur.
If taken in large doses, it can lead to hypoglycemia, low blood pressure, and even respiratory paralysis. Therefore, when taking red ginseng, it is important to follow the doctor's advice and not use it blindly.
Differences Between Various Ginseng Varieties
Codonopsis Pilosula
The main effect of codonopsis pilosula is to tonify the middle and replenish qi. It can be used for any deficiency of qi and blood, such as fatigue, weakness in the limbs, loose stools and loss of appetite caused by spleen deficiency. It is also suitable for people who are prone to colds, coughs, and have qi and blood deficiency.
In terms of side effects, codonopsis pilosula generally does not have any adverse reactions. However, if the dosage is too large, such as more than 60g at a time, arrhythmia may occur. It is generally recommended to cook codonopsis pilosula with angelica, wolfberry, and hen to make a soup, which has the effects of tonifying qi and blood, improving dizziness, and enhancing resistance.
American Ginseng
American ginseng mainly has the effects of clearing heat, nourishing yin, and generating fluid to relieve thirst. Although it looks similar to ginseng, its effects are different. Ginseng focuses on tonifying qi and is more yang-boosting and dispelling cold. American ginseng tonifies qi but emphasizes nourishing yin and is less likely to cause internal heat.
It is generally recommended to brew American ginseng as a tea or take it in the form of tablets.
Prince Ginseng
Prince ginseng tonifies qi without causing internal heat. It focuses on improving symptoms of poor appetite, physical weakness caused by spleen deficiency, as well as relieving spontaneous sweating, thirst, and dry cough.
The recommended way to consume prince ginseng is to brew it as a tea using water above 90℃.
