Red Ginseng or Korean Ginseng
The Real Ginseng
The red ginseng is also called “Korean ginseng,” as it originates from this country, as well as China. In some respects, we might refer to it as the “real ginseng,” since the Western plants come from this region.
This distinction is more significant than it appears: the “real” Korean ginseng is distinguished from fake ginsengs, which come from other parts of the world.
For example, contrary to what its name suggests, Siberian ginseng is not ginseng: only Korean red ginseng has a high content of ginsenosides, which are the main sought-after actives.
White Ginseng and Red Ginseng: What Are the Differences?
While this red ginseng has virtues other than the well-known white ginseng in the West, it also has common points.
In fact, both white and red ginsengs are one and the same plant. Their color difference comes from the treatment this plant has undergone:
- After harvesting, white ginseng is directly dried in the sun
- Red ginseng, however, is also dried. But first, it is steamed for several hours at a temperature of 100°C, giving it its reddish color.
On the other hand, like white ginseng, it is always the root of the red ginseng that we consume.
How to Choose an Effective Ginseng?
The age of the plant matters. Indeed, unlike white ginseng, which can be consumed from the age of 4, we should avoid red ginsengs younger than 6 years old: only then will the active principles truly be present in the plant.
Moreover, there are red ginsengs that are 12 years old or even older.
The quality of ginseng is measured by its content of saponin and ginsenosides: respectively from 80 mg to 120 mg/g and 10 mg to 12 mg/g.
Read also | Our Tips for Buying the Best Ginseng
The Benefits of Red Ginseng
This is the other major difference between the two ginsengs: their virtues. To sum it up in a few words, we would say that white ginseng is intended for people looking for a calming effect, whereas red ginseng has an energizing effect.
To get into the details, red ginseng acts in four areas.
A Natural Detoxifier
Red ginseng is indeed part of detoxifiers, akin to cucumber or lemon. In other words, it helps our body, particularly our kidneys or liver, to get rid of toxins brought by pollution and other harmful elements.
Moreover, organic red ginsengs are particularly potent regarding this detoxifying and anti-inflammatory capacity. It is saponin, which is very present in the roots and is part of the renowned ginsenosides.
Moreover, we will also find it in plants like quinoa or sarsaparilla.
A Valuable Ally Against Stress
Red ginseng is meant to be energizing. Yet, it is indeed recommended against stress, whether it’s physical, psychological, or biological.
In fact, Korean ginseng tea is renowned for its contributions to overall life balance. It boosts concentration and calms the nerves at the same time. It soothes tensions but also has very interesting virtues for stimulating memory. In other words, it channels our energy positively.
According to a 2011 Korean study, the plant is also recommended for symptoms of depression. Even better: it would reduce the risk of relapse.
Red Ginseng and Cardiovascular Diseases
Among the benefits of red ginseng is fighting cardiovascular diseases. It reduces bad cholesterol, combats hypertension, and prevents arterial blockages. Under these conditions, it may be recommended for men suffering from erectile problems or people having pulmonary recovery difficulties.
But at the same time, although they are quite rare, there are cases of overconsumption or contraindications.
In such cases, ginseng in general (red or white) can have the opposite effects: heart palpitations, nervousness, or even addiction. It is thus not recommended for people with heart problems or sleep disorders.
Red Ginseng Against the Challenges of Menopause
According to a 2012 study conducted on 72 women, it provides control over the unpleasant effects of menopause, particularly sudden fatigue or hot flashes.
For this, ginseng stimulates estrogen, which boosts libido. In parallel with what we have said so far, red ginseng helps manage chronic stress and restores physical energy, which tends to be lacking during this period.
Dosage
Red ginseng can be easily found in pharmacies. It can be taken:
- As an infusion
- In capsules
- As a mother tincture (pre-maceration of the plant in an alcoholic liquid)
In the case of taking capsules, they should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
Reports of adverse effects remain rare, so it is possible to consume ginseng year-round. However, it is recommended for a first course not to last more than three months.
