What wonderful herb would draw together both Native American healers and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners 5000 years ago? Use of ginseng (Panax ginseng) in Traditional Chinese Medicine can be traced back beyond their written language. The North American species, Panax quinquefolius, was known to the Ojibwe across Minnesota and into Canada, though how far back is lost in time. While similar, these two potent herbs do have some slight differences and I'm sure the two cultures would find great common ground thanks to these ginsengs.
Medicinal Properties: Panax quinquefolius vs. Panax ginseng
1. Adaptogenic Effects and Energy Regulation
Both Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius are adaptogens, but their energetic profiles differ. Panax ginseng is warming and stimulating, known for enhancing stamina, mental performance, and physical endurance. It’s ideal for individuals experiencing fatigue due to burnout or aging.
In contrast, Panax quinquefolius has a cooling nature. It is more calming, often used to reduce stress and support adrenal recovery, particularly when the nervous system is taxed. Studies have shown that P. quinquefolius can also improve physical endurance and reduce fatigue, but without the overstimulation some experience from P. ginseng.
2. Blood Sugar Regulation
Both species help regulate blood glucose, but American ginseng (P. quinquefolius) has shown superior effects in type 2 diabetes management. Clinical trials report a significant decrease in postprandial glucose when 3 grams of ground American ginseng is taken before meals. Asian ginseng also improves insulin sensitivity but is more often used for energy metabolism enhancement than glucose control.
3. Immune Function and Respiratory Health
Both ginsengs enhance immune function, but American ginseng has been particularly noted for reducing respiratory tract infections. A proprietary extract of P. quinquefolius (CVT-E002) has shown promise in reducing the incidence and duration of colds and flu, especially in older adults. Korean ginseng is also immunomodulatory but is more often used for rebuilding vitality post-illness. Like I always say, go wild, get healthy, it's science!
The Science
Irfan M, Kwak YS, Han CK, Hyun SH, Rhee MH. Adaptogenic effects of Panax ginseng on modulation of cardiovascular functions. J Ginseng Res. 2020 Jul;44(4):538-543. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2020.03.001. Epub 2020 Mar 28. PMID: 32617033; PMCID: PMC7322748.
Sen S, Querques MA, Chakrabarti S. North American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) prevents hyperglycemia and associated pancreatic abnormalities in diabetes. J Med Food. 2013 Jul;16(7):587-92. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2012.0192. PMID: 23875898.
Ratan ZA, Youn SH, Kwak YS, Han CK, Haidere MF, Kim JK, Min H, Jung YJ, Hosseinzadeh H, Hyun SH, Cho JY. Adaptogenic effects of Panax ginseng on modulation of immune functions. J Ginseng Res. 2021 Jan;45(1):32-40. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2020.09.004. Epub 2020 Sep 17. PMID: 33437154; PMCID: PMC7790873.
Best Preparation Method
Ginseng is most commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or capsule. Tea is made by steeping dried 4-5 dime-sized ginseng root slices in hot water for 10 minutes, offering a gentle and traditional way to enjoy its benefits. I describe the flavor as "woody" and you can modify it with honey and/or lemon. Fresh ginseng root can also be chewed directly or incorporated into soups for a nourishing boost. For a more concentrated effect, ginseng extract capsules standardized for ginsenoside content are ideal.
Panax ginseng is best taken as a standardized extract, decoction, or tincture, especially in chronic fatigue, poor circulation, or menopausal exhaustion. Start with 100–200 mg/day of a standardized extract (4–7% ginsenosides).
Panax quinquefolius is most effective in powdered capsule form or as a hot water infusion, particularly for immune support or blood sugar balance. Doses of 1–3 grams of dried root daily are typical, depending on constitution and condition.
Warnings and Contraindications
- Panax ginseng may cause overstimulation, insomnia, or palpitations if overused or taken late in the day. It’s contraindicated in people with hypertension, acute inflammation, or sensitivity to warming herbs.
- Panax quinquefolius, being cooler, is generally safer for long-term use but can still interact with diabetic medications and blood thinners.
- Both species should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation unless directed by a qualified practitioner.
- Take both ginsengs in cycles (e.g., 3 weeks on, 1 week off) to avoid tolerance buildup and overstimulation of the HPA axis.
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