Daily Health News Blog

According to herbal folklore, plants that resemble human body parts have healing effects on those parts. And since ginseng’s root resembles a human figure, it’s said to be good for the whole body. Proponents claim that ginseng acts as an “adaptogen,” boosting the body’s resistance to physical and mental stress, increasing energy, and enhancing general well-being. The herb is said to help prevent or treat everything from colds, diabetes, digestive problems, and menopause symptoms to poor circulation, asthma, memory prob­­lems, and even HIV infection and can­­cer. It’s also touted as an aphrodisiac. There are several types, including Asian ginseng ( Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, often sold as Korean, Chinese, or Panax ginseng) and American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius ). It also comes as red or white ginseng, depending on how it’s processed. Siberian ginseng ( Eleutherococcus senticosus ) is often said to have the same effects as Panax ginseng, but it is not a true ginseng. It and oth