Ginseng is one of the most popular traditional medicinal herbs that is still very relevant across the world. In fact, various researches back up how ginseng is useful, which is why people use it. Without a doubt, when we talk about old times, ginseng was more actively used in the eastern countries, like Korea. Today, you would find ginseng as a key ingredient in many skincare products, food products, and supplements.
While most people are aware of ginseng, less people know that there are various types of ginseng. While the very basic properties are similar for these ginseng types, there is a difference in the composition as well as potency of these ginsengs. Thus, if you want to know which one is right for you, you have to do a basic study of these types, so that you can pick what would be the best for you. With that being said, here are the types of ginseng you need to know about.
Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng, a scientific term, is more popularly known as Korean ginseng, Chinese ginseng, or collectively as oriental ginseng. The color of this ginseng is white. However, as it dries off, it gets darker in color. Various studies prove the primary health benefit of oriental ginseng, that is, the ability to lower blood pressure. One of the experiments was conducted on rats. As a result of administering oriental ginseng, there was a reduction in blood pressure. Thus, oriental ginseng can be used as a natural remedy for people who suffer from a high blood pressure.
Red ginseng
When oriental ginseng undergoes heat, the color of the ginseng turns red. This is how red ginseng is made. The whole point of processing it with the help of heat is to give it a prolonged shelf life. Pretty much like oriental ginseng, various studies prove that red ginseng is capable of lowering blood pressure. Red ginseng is capable of increasing the flow of blood through the blood vessels. As a result of increased blood flow, there is a reduction in blood pressure. This is how red ginseng can help people in managing high blood pressure.
American ginseng
While both oriental and red ginsengs have eastern origins, the American ginseng comes from the western side of the world, as the name already suggests. In terms of potency, we would say oriental and red ginsengs are more potent than the American ginseng. In fact, various researches that were conducted for American ginseng have witnessed different kind of results as compared to oriental and red ginseng. American ginseng doesn’t have an effect on the blood pressure. It does not work towards lowering the blood pressure or increase the blood flow. A study was published in “hypertension” in the year 2005, which witnessed that two sets of patients- one with a placebo and another being administered with American ginseng had no difference in the blood pressure.
If you read about all the ginseng kinds that have been mentioned here, you know how important it is to know which type of ginseng you are using. While oriental, red, and American ginseng are the most commonly used ones, there are a couple of other kinds too, which are quite limited in their uses. Researches and various health specialists highly suggest panax ginseng- the red or the Korean one to be used for people who aim to manage their blood pressure. You can buy panax ginseng supplements and use them on a regular basis. However, make sure the ginseng supplement you buy makes use of the kind of ginseng you intend to use.