A root with a human shape that packs a huge punch.. 

Ginseng is the dried root of one of several species of a family of herbs. The most common type of ginseng is Asian ginseng, often called Panax, Chinese, or Korean ginseng - but most frequently refered to as Panax Ginseng.

Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is a knobby, light tan root. Occasionally the middle of the root is said to resemble the human body because the string like shoots that stem off from the root look like arms and legs. 

Benefits of Ginseng 

The benefits of taking ginseng are based on its phytochemicals - or chemicals derived from plants - which have some powerful properties including:

• limiting the production of excess stress hormones which can damage the immune system
• increasing the effectiveness of neurotransmitters in the brain - improving sharpness and mental function
• stimulating the formation of blood vessels and improving blood circulation in the brain so improving memory and thinking ability
  

Ginseng is also used as an aid to insomnia and in the relief of post-menopausal symptoms and migraine.  In addition, Korean ginseng contains natural steroids which are remarkably similar to anabolic steroids and help the body to build lean muscle mass

Natural anti-aging properties..

Herbal supplements generally have less research studies carried out and there is less documented evidence.  Ginseng is probably one of the most studied natural herbal remedies.  In 1995, a study found that the supplementation of ginseng led to an increase in the lymphocyte production in the body, which offsets the effects of aging.

Earlier, in 1994, mice were given an extract of ginseng and were found to have increased their lifespan as well as prevented weight loss due to aging.    

Ginseng tea or powdered root..

Ginseng is found in a variety of forms – pills, capsules, teas, powdered root, extract, and tinctures.  When you take a natural plant-derived supplement - the important thing is to get as much as possible of the essential essences of the plant.  So - while the pill, tea, and tincture may be the easier ways to take the herbal medicine, - you can also take ginseng as a tea made from the powdered root. 

The suggested dose for Korean (panax) ginseng is 1,000 to 2,000 mg of fresh root, 600 to 2,000 mg of dried root, or 200 to 600 mg of liquid
extract daily.

Possible problems..

 

Ginseng has generally been shown to be effective and harmless for most people in normal health.  Excessive dosages can result in low blood sugar.  The most important thing to be aware of is that ginseng can interact with other medicines.  If you are diabetic or you are taking an anti-coagulant like warfarin you should talk to your doctor before taking ginseng.