Learn all about Ginseng

Ginseng works through unique compounds called ginsenosides (over 50 types identified). These are similar to steroid hormones and interact with specific receptors in the body. In the brain, ginseng affects several chemical messengers: boosting acetylcholine (memory), balancing dopamine and serotonin (mood, stress), and regulating glutamate and GABA (brain function under stress). Its 'adaptogenic' effect comes from balancing the body's main stress response system (HPA axis) – it can stimulate the stress response when needed but limit excessive stress hormones (like cortisol) during chronic stress. It enhances energy by activating a key cell energy sensor (AMPK), improving how cells use glucose, and protecting the cell's powerhouses ('mitochondria'). It supports immunity by boosting certain immune cells (macrophages, natural killer cells) and balancing inflammatory signals. It also helps relax blood vessels (via nitric oxide) improving circulation, protects cells from stress, and acts as an antioxidant. This multi-target action explains its broad effects.

True ginseng comes only from Panax plants, mainly Asian/Korean (Panax ginseng) and American (Panax quinquefolius). These slow-growing plants need 4-6 years before roots have enough active compounds. Where they grow affects their profile: Asian ginseng (from NE China, Korea, Russia) has more Rg1/Re ginsenosides (more stimulating). American ginseng (from eastern North America) has more Rb1 (calmer energy). Other types exist like Panax notoginseng (Sanqi - good for circulation) and Japanese/Vietnamese ginseng. Processing matters: white ginseng is just dried; red ginseng is steamed first (making some ginsenosides more active, more stimulating); black ginseng involves multiple steaming cycles (potentially better absorption). Other plants called 'ginseng' (Siberian, Brazilian, Indian/Ashwagandha) are unrelated and have different effects. Wild ginseng is often endangered; most commercial ginseng is now farmed.