American Ginseng Powder (Panax quinquefolius)

Finely ground root of Panax quinquefolius, American Ginseng. Native to the deciduous forests of eastern North America, American Ginseng has been used by Native peoples for centuries and was an early export to China (where Asian Ginseng is the traditional species). In Traditional Chinese Medicine, American Ginseng is classified as "cooling" while Asian Ginseng is "warming" - the two are used differently despite being closely related.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Panax quinquefolius

Family

Araliaceae

Common names

American Ginseng, Sang, Five-Fingered Ginseng

Native region

Eastern North America (Appalachian Mountains and Eastern Deciduous Forest)

TCM classification

"Cooling" (vs. "warming" Asian Ginseng)

Studied compounds

Ginsenosides (Rb1, Re, and others)

Traditional use

Adaptogen, energy tonic, particularly for "yin deficiency" patterns in TCM

What is American Ginseng?

American Ginseng is the North American cousin of the Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng). The species grows wild in the understory of eastern North American forests, particularly the Appalachian region. American Ginseng was traded with China as early as the 1700s, where it became valued as a cooling complement to the warming Asian Ginseng. Wild American Ginseng has been overharvested and is now subject to regulation; commercial cultivation has been the dominant source for many decades.

How to Use American Ginseng Powder

Traditional preparation is a tea or decoction. Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon into hot water and steep for 10 minutes, or add to soup or broth. The powder also works for encapsulation. American Ginseng has a slightly sweet, earthy character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between American and Asian Ginseng?
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is "cooling" in TCM terms; Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is "warming." They are closely related species used in different contexts in TCM.

Is wild American Ginseng available?
Wild American Ginseng is regulated; most commercial American Ginseng is cultivated.

What are ginsenosides?
The primary class of active compounds in Panax species ginseng. Different ginsenosides predominate in American vs. Asian Ginseng.

What is American Ginseng used for?
Adaptogen and energy tonic; in TCM, particularly for "yin deficiency" patterns.

How long has American Ginseng been traded?
American Ginseng has been a transatlantic trade commodity since the early 1700s. Jesuit missionaries observed the similarity to Asian Ginseng and initiated the export trade.

How does it taste?
Slightly sweet, earthy, with a subtle bitter undertone.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.