Korean Red Ginseng (Panax)
Panax ginseng
高丽参
Pinyin: Gāo Lí Shēn
Plant Family
Araliaceae
Part Used
Root
Origin
Korea, Northeast China, Eastern Russia
Safety Level
Caution
Overview
Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is the most well-known and researched ginseng species. It is a slow-growing perennial root that takes 4-6 years to mature. The "red" ginseng is steamed and dried, which increases its warming nature and transforms the ginsenoside profile. It is one of the most prized herbs in the world.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
slightly warm
Flavors (五味)
sweet, bitter
Meridians (归经)
spleen, lung, heart, kidney
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Tonifies yuan qi (original/primal qi)
- Benefits spleen and lung
- Calms the spirit and improves cognition
- Generates fluids
- Boosts immunity
- Improves physical endurance and recovery
- Sexual health and fertility
- Anti-aging and longevity
- Blood sugar regulation
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Tea, soup, powder, capsules, extract, tincture. Red ginseng is more warming; white ginseng is more neutral.
Suggested Dosage
Tea: 3-9g simmered 15-30 min. Powder: 1-3g daily. Extract: 100-500mg standardized extract.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Autumn, from 4-6 year old plants
Quality Indicators
6-year-old roots are premium. Deep reddish-brown color, firm texture, strong ginseng aroma. Korean ginseng (Koryo) is the most famous. Look for ginsenoside content on supplements.
Storage
Airtight container, cool dry place, 2-3 years
Safety Information
Contraindications
High blood pressureBipolar disorder / maniaBleeding disordersPregnancy and breastfeedingAutoimmune diseasesFever and acute infectionsChildren under 12
Possible Side Effects
- Insomnia (when taken late)
- Nervousness and jitteriness
- Headache
- Digestive upset
- Increased blood pressure (in some)
- Allergic reaction (rare)
Drug Interactions
- Blood thinners (warfarin)
- Diabetes medications
- Antidepressants (MAOIs, SSRIs)
- Immunosuppressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Stimulants (caffeine)
- Hormone therapies
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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