Korean ginseng is a very popular medicinal product of nature. It is a root that Asian medicine has implemented in cures for thousands of years. Modern science has shown that it significantly boosts the immune system as well. This is one of the reasons why Korean red ginseng drinks are now so popular. The plant is very slow-growing and is part of the Panax genus. This means it grows in some of the colder areas of the Asian continent, including Korea, where it grows both wild and in cultivations.
What Is Korean Red Ginseng?
This type of ginseng is harvested after the plant has grown for six years. It then gets either sun dried, or it is steamed. Often, the red ginseng then marinates in a herbal brew, which makes the ginseng itself more brittle. This type of ginseng is a cultivate type, and it is believed to increase libido and energy levels.
How Is Red Ginseng Used?
Red ginseng is often presented as a drink designed to boost the immune system and support overall health. It is also believed to:
- Control and lower blood pressure.
- Improve physical and mental performance.
- Increase stamina
- Increase energy
- Increase recovery times from illnesses
- Enhance libido
- Improve sexual performance
How Does Red Ginseng Work?
The root of the Panax genus contains ginsenosides, also known as panaxosides, which are active chemical components. It is believed that these give the root its medicinal properties. Although chemical components, they come from a natural source, and ginseng is part of the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) list by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is not in any way a drug.
What Does Science Say?
- In 2001, a number of studies demonstrated that red ginseng is linked to lowering the prevalence of cancer, particularly if the ginseng was steamed or heat-treated.
- In 2002, a double-blind study was conducted into the effects of Korean red ginseng on impotence, demonstrating that it is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.
- In 2002, another study looked at whether red ginseng had an impact on survival rates and postoperative immunity in patients with a gastric cancer diagnosis. Those who took red ginseng in powder form had a significantly higher five-year survival rates than those who didn’t.
Ginseng is part of the GRAS list, meaning it can be safely consumed, even in high amounts. However, this does not mean that you can’t have too much of it. It is important, therefore, to speak to your physician first. Some research suggests that it may help in the treatment of type 2 diabetes as well, so if you have that diagnosis and you already take medication to control your diabetes, you should be monitored by your physician. Of course, it may very well be that you can replace your medication with ginseng.
Korean red ginseng is almost always provided in drinks in the Western market. However, it is equally available in capsules, tablets, extracts, teas, creams and a range of other forms.