Korean Ginseng: Benefits, Characteristics, and Side Effects

Korean Ginseng

Korean ginseng has been recorded as a specialty product since the Goguryeo era, and at that time, it was considered the best medicinal herb. Ancient Chinese emperors also sought herbal remedies for immortality, and among them, Korean ginseng was considered the most outstanding. Subsequently, the evaluation of ginseng's active ingredients and value became known worldwide, leading to its cultivation in China, Japan, the United States, and other countries. However, Korean ginseng excels in various conditions, including climate, soil, cultivation techniques, and production technologies, making it recognized as the best ginseng in the world.

Ginseng has been recognized as an elixir of immortality for its outstanding efficacy for 4,000 to 5,000 years. While other drugs can cause side effects when taken for extended periods, ginseng has virtually no side effects. In fact, in Heo Jun's Donguibogam, it is written that "ginseng is non-toxic and can be taken for a long time without harm." Among traditional medicinal herbs, ginseng is considered the best. In the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, it is recorded that it enhances the functions of the five internal organs (liver, heart, lungs, kidneys, and spleen) and has the ability to calm the mind. Furthermore, ginseng is said to improve eyesight, enhance intelligence, and promote longevity with long-term consumption. Our Korean ginseng, with its warm and sweet flavor, offers various benefits to our bodies, aiding in maintaining health.

Benefits of Ginseng

1. Fatigue Recovery: Ginseng is exceptionally effective in restoring the body's energy and improving frail constitutions. It aids in effective fatigue recovery when physical strength is diminished due to illness. The saponin content in ginseng inhibits free radicals and activates immune cells, significantly contributing to boosting the immune system.

2. Skin Beauty: Ginseng promotes the synthesis of essential skin proteins, aiding in skin regeneration. This accelerates the skin's turnover process. Additionally, the saponins in ginseng protect the skin by effectively shielding it from external irritants like bacteria and ultraviolet rays.

3. Prevention of Arteriosclerosis: Ginseng is effective in preventing arteriosclerosis by reducing triglyceride levels and breaking down and eliminating cholesterol. It prevents the accumulation of cholesterol and fat in the arteries, maintaining the elasticity of blood vessels.

4. Prevention of Hypotension: The saponins in ginseng effectively regulate the autonomic nervous system, alleviating the tension of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is one of the causes of hypotension.

5. Improved Brain Function: Ginsenoside, a saponin found in ginseng, stimulates receptors in the brain that reduce internal stimulation, effectively protecting against cognitive decline due to aging.

6. Stress Relief: The ginsenoside content in ginseng regulates the autonomic nervous system, making it effective for stress, mental illness, and depression.

7. Cold Symptom Relief: Ginseng dilates blood vessels, improving blood circulation and effectively relieving cold symptoms such as cold hands and feet.

8. Anemia Prevention: Ginseng promotes red blood cell division, effectively preventing anemia. It helps maintain health by preventing anemia caused by a deficiency of red blood cells.

※ Side Effects and Precautions of Ginseng

Ginseng has been certified as a safe food by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) and the WHO (World Health Organization). However, individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking prescription medications should consult with a specialist or physician before consuming ginseng. Ginseng is composed of components similar to the female hormone estrogen. Therefore, individuals with conditions related to female hormones, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, and endometriosis, should avoid consuming it.

White ginseng (ginseng with the skin removed) has a strong invigorating effect, so individuals with high blood pressure should avoid consuming it. Furthermore, as one of ginseng's benefits is lowering blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes who are using insulin injections should exercise caution as it may enhance the effects of the medication. Ginseng has a warm and sweet nature. Therefore, individuals with excessive body heat may experience symptoms such as rashes, dizziness, headaches, bleeding, and itching after consumption.