The botanical name Panax is given to the perennial plant with a fleshy root known as ginseng, the root is used to create a tea which is said to have many healing and energy-giving properties. These benefits are down to the natural chemicals inside the plant called 'ginsenosides'.
The origin of the tea is fairly blurry but it has been in use for over 5000 years. The ancient Chinese called it 'Ren Shen' and placed great faith in its healing abilities and a cure for all ailments. Ginseng became so valuable that it was bartered for silk and even prized above gold. Stocks of wild Ginseng became exhausted and it became commercially cultivated, however the wild variety still maintained an extremely higher value than the cultivated variety.
To make the tea, the root can be used fresh or in a dried form. It can be bought whole, sliced, in powder form or even in tea bags. The average ginseng plant is matured for about 6 years before it is harvested. It is available in a variety of forms across the world and commonly consumed for medicinal value.
It has been scientifically proven that the tea has a natural ability to reinforce the immune system, which can prevent colds, flu and some forms of cancer. Ginseng also has the ability to help lower cholesterol and blood sugar which can help those suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Tests have shown that ginseng was able to relax the muscles of the lungs and airway which provided relief for the symptoms of asthma, constriction of the airways and other lung diseases. Some non-scientific research has also shown a correlation between the use of ginseng and enhanced memory and cognitive ability, but these are not supported by scientific evidence.
The tea not only helps prevent certain types of cancer but also reduces the side effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. It has also been strongly proven to support any other cancer preventatives.
The use of ginseng is widely known to effect men's libido, combating problems such as erectile dysfunction. The components of ginseng act on the central nervous system and the gonadal tissues to effect and improve libido.
You won't find Ginseng tea getting served with paper cup lids or biodegradable cups as there is a traditional brewing and serving process.
Posted under Tea
This post was written by Tom Doerr on July 17, 2010


