Ginseng (American) Powder

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a member of the ivy family and native to eastern United States and Canada, although the species is also cultivated in China. The root is harvested from plants that are five to ten years old. Wild American ginseng is in such high demand that it has been declared a threatened or endangered species in some states in the United States. Due to overharvesting and urban sprawl, American ginseng is also commercially cultivated in woodland or artificial settings in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where it takes 4 to 10 years before the roots are harvested.

Like its Asian counterpart, Panax ginseng, American ginseng is considered an adaptogenic herb that helps the body cope with stress and resist disease. The active agents in the root are ginsenosides, a class of saponins that are exclusive to plants in the Panax genus.

People take American ginseng by mouth for stress, to boost the immune system, and as a stimulant. American ginseng is also used for upper airway infection, for diabetes, and many other conditions. The whole dried roots are used in tea blends and to make infusions, tinctures and liquid extracts.

Appearance, aroma and taste profile: Woody with no discernable scent. Mildly sweet in flavor.

Botanical Name: Panax quinquefolius

Common Names: Anchi Ginseng, Baie Rouge, Canadian Ginseng, Ginseng