Ginseng is one of America's most popular herbal supplements. Ginseng is classified as an adaptogen. There are three varieties of Ginseng, but only two of these are classified as real Ginseng.

American Ginseng

American Ginseng has ginsenosides. It is known for its medicinal properties. It has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Asian Ginseng

Asian Ginseng is also known as Korean Ginseng. It also has ginsenosides. It is also an adaptogenic herb. Additionally, Asian Ginseng is sometimes called a hot stimulant in Asian medicine.

Siberian Ginseng

Siberian Ginseng does not have any ginsenosides, and it is not considered true Ginseng. It does have eleutherosides, which helps boost the immune system.

American Ginseng Health Benefits

You can not use American Ginseng until it is at least six years old. You can tell the age by looking at the wrinkles in its roots. American Ginseng is becoming endangered because it is overharvested.

Mice studies have shown that it can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar.

One study showed that older adults who took American Ginseng were 48 percent less likely to develop the flu. Those who already had the flu were able to recover faster.

Siberian Ginseng Health Benefits

Even though Siberian ginseng is not considered true ginseng, it still has a number of health benefits.

How To Use Gingseng

Ginseng can cause insomnia and nervousness if it is taken in large doses. Make sure that you exercise caution if you are breastfeeding or breathing. It is also important to note that Ginseng can interact with diabetes medications, antidepressants, blood-thinning medications, and stimulants.