Ginseng is a slowly-growing rooted plant that was first discovered in the hills of China over 5000 years ago. It is believed that ginseng was first used solely as a food source, however, it was soon realized that the plant’s benefits extended beyond its nutritional value. The people of ancient China viewed ginseng as a way to increase strength, alter the mind, and extend their length of life.

Once the Chinese people discovered the natural powers of ginseng it became as valuable as gold to them. Wars were fought over territories that grew ginseng, and government worked to control these areas as well. The crop quickly became over-harvested as populations grew and popularity started to rise. To this
day, ginseng root is still protected by the Chinese government and individuals are heavily fined for attempting to gather it.

The plant was slow to grow, needed specific conditions, and people had little to no foresight about planting seeds to continue sustained growth. It has been a long time since ginseng was widely available
naturally, and that still remains the case today. One of the biggest reasons for this is the forest conditions needed for the plant to grow. While these conditions can be simulated, it is difficult to replicate the exact natural environment ginseng typically grows in.

Ginseng is viewed as a tonic because it does not only help with a wide variety of health conditions, it can also work to prevent them. Here are some of the biggest reasons why ginseng is used to improve overall health.

Stress Reduction: Ginseng has been found to help reduce mental and physical stress. It is known as an adaptogen, which means that it works to reduce cortisol, a stress hormone while making adrenal glands stronger.

Boosts Immune System: There have been clinical studies that show ginseng helps the cells that play a role in providing immunity. Ginseng also helps the body maintain the level of homeostasis needed to fight off illnesses and infection.

Improves Focus: If you have a test coming up, consider ginseng as a natural alternative to addictive study drugs. It can help improve memory, mental clarity, and sharpness without the risk of severe
Adderall side effects.

Aids in Withdrawal: Using ginseng can lessen the symptoms of anxiety and withdrawal typically tied to addictive substances. It can also help individuals get past hangovers.

Other Benefits: Among many other health benefits, ginseng can be used to help to regulate blood pressure, lower the risks of cancer, helps with lung problems, and improve energy

Ginseng is technically a member of the ivy family, and people compare its looks to that of the human body. This is because the root has a tan color to it and it also has five fingered leaves that look like a hand. The root is rather fleshly and rarely extends beyond three inches in length. The smell of ginseng tends to be described as a cross between licorice and ginger, with a hint of bitterness. The whole plant grows from 60-80 inches, has greenish white flowers and red berries.

If you are looking to give ginseng a try, it can be found in teas, tinctures, capsules and many other forms. There is a reason why this plant has been in high demand for over 5000 years. It has a track record of providing people across the world with beneficial health results, so it may be worth a try yourself.

About the author: About the author: Connor Hayes is a graduate of Michigan State University. Currently, he is freelance writer focusing on the topics of health, addiction, and recovery. In his free time, Connor enjoys watching sports, cooking, and reading.