--This may seem like a basic question, but what is ginseng?

A basic question deserves a good basic answer.

many characterize Ginseng by its medicinal properties. Having originated in the Orient, Ginseng is classified under the genus of five or six species of perennial plants that grow slowly. Belonging to the Araliaceae plant family, Ginseng has fleshy roots. Through the use of technology, ginseng can be found in most herb and alternative medicine shops and is used to treat multiple diseases.

--What makes ginseng so great?

To those in the field of alternative medicine, it is well-known that ginseng is beneficial to a person's health. Even so, it is not easy to prove such a claim scientifically. So, what is it in ginseng that makes herb doctors and herbal experts so certain of its medicinal properties? Ginseng is considered to be an adaptogen. Basically, what this means is that it increases the body's resistance to stress but is harmless to use. Due to this fact, many people take a ginseng supplement to help their overall health.

--So, what are the different kinds of ginseng?

Different kinds of ginseng cure different kinds of medical or health issues. Some forms of ginseng have been known to have anti-cancer properties. The most common kinds of ginseng are Chinese Ginseng, Korean Ginseng, Panax Ginseng, Aralia, Schefflera, and Tropical Snowflake Ginseng. Each of these has individual features and different healing effects.

Panax Ginseng is also known as Korean Ginseng. It is a deciduous perennial shrub with roots that are cultivated for 4-6 years before reaching maturity. Ginseng Panax is the most common form of ginseng. This is commonly used as an anti-aging herb by most of the Korean and Chinese countries. Panax Ginseng is a popular herb today because it is not harmful to the body, has no toxic properties and few side effects.

You may have also heard of Wild Ginseng. It is not planted or cultivated domestically but can be found almost anywhere since it grows naturally. However, the availability of wild ginseng is decreasing as it is already becoming endangered.

I know there are different kinds of ginseng, but is one form better than another?

Ginseng taken in certain forms can be more effective. Standardized extracts and solid forms of ginseng are proven to have a greater effect. They also are considerably more reliable in effectiveness than other formulations. Here's a great post on the effects of ginseng that compares Panax Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng.

--Is ginseng expensive?

It's hard to say without knowing all the variables. It will depend on the kind and form of ginseng recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Types of ginseng range from 10 to 100 dollars or higher.

Very few ginseng roots sell for low prices, but the highest grade will reach as high as $10,000 per root. There are other things that may effect the price. Harvesting and cultivating can also effect the price. Of course, demand for a certain kind of ginseng will also raise the price.

--What is the best way to take ginseng?

Personal preference and lifestyle are really the key factors here. Here are some things to consider. For ginseng capsules, plan to take your dose an hour before bedtime. If tea is your thing, then by all means, use tea. However, taking all forms is not a good idea, for example tablets, teas and tinctures at the same time. It may cause an overdose of ginseng.

--Should I take ginseng with food?

The use or intake of ginseng sometimes differs from culture to culture. It is interesting to note that no specific restrictions have been placed on ginseng in terms of food, beverages or any other specific activity a person can do while taking any form of ginseng. Nonetheless, it is always wise to let your healther care provider know you are taking ginseng and allow him or her to direct your health care.

--What are the best practices for storing ginseng?

You'll usually find storage instructions on the package. As a common rule, ginseng should be protected from too much light and moisture so that it does not lose its effectiveness. With that in mind,It's best to store it someplace where it's dry and dark.