Adapt To Stress In Your Life With Ginseng
Ginseng is listed as an adaptogen. A definition of an adaptogen is a “non toxic substance which reinforces the body’s ability to react to stress.” It is offered in a variety of species each yielding a different response.
Ginseng is a plant with many different components. It is used in its entirety in the preparation of teas, powders, and capsules. It contains saponins, or soaplike materials, that have been named with various numbers and letters, such as Rg1. Its root is said to have a composition similar to that of a steroid.
Ginseng refers to species or a genus of 11 species of slow growing perennial plants with fleshy roots, in the family Araliaceae. They grow in the Northern Hemisphere in eastern Asia (mostly northern China, Korea, and eastern Siberia), typically in cooler climates; Panax vietnamensis, discovered in Vietnam, is the southernmost ginseng products found.
Ginseng may cause symptoms of toxicity in very large quantities called Ginseng Abuse Syndrome. More isn’t always better. This has been shown with Panax ginseng usage. Read labels carefully before purchasing. A concern when purchasing Siberian Ginseng is the continued practice of substitution. An herb called Periploca sepium is reported to be a common adulterant used in Siberian Ginseng products.
The raw herb, tinctures or infusions should be stored in airtight, dry, and light resistant containers at room temperature. If there is an expiration date listed on the herbal product, throw away the unused portion after the expiration date. Raw herbs, tinctures, ointments, etc all have varying life spans. Generally, an herbal product will have the longest life span when it has been extracted in alcohol.
Ginseng is available in capsule, tablet, tincture (liquid) and powder forms. What ever form you decide to purchase and consume, ginseng can help you adapt to the stress that is in your life and feel better. Look for quality ginseng products at your local or internet discount vitamin store, in name brands such as Solaray and Source Naturals.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Ginseng is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications
This entry was posted on Friday, May 28th, 2010 at 3:38 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.