Red ginseng or Korean ginseng
The real ginseng
Red ginseng is also called “Korean ginseng,” since it originates from that country, but also from China. To some extent, we could speak of “true ginseng,” given that western plants come from that region.
This is a more important clarification than it appears: the “true” Korean ginseng is distinguished from false ginsengs that come from other regions of the world.
For example, contrary to what its name suggests, the Siberian ginseng is not ginseng: only Korean red ginseng contains high levels of ginsenosides, which are the main active compounds sought.
White ginseng and red ginseng: what are the differences?
While this red ginseng has different benefits than the white ginseng well known in the West, it also has points in common.
In fact, white and red ginseng are one and the same plant. Their difference in color comes from the processing that it has undergone:
- After harvest, white ginseng is dried directly in the sun.
- Red ginseng is also dried. But first, it is steamed for several hours at 100°C. That is what gives it its reddish color.
However, as with white ginseng, it is always the root of red ginseng that we consume.
How to choose an effective ginseng?
The age of the plant matters. Indeed, unlike white ginseng, which can be consumed from 4 years old, avoid red ginsengs under 6 years of age: only then will the active compounds be truly present in the plant.
Moreover, there are red ginsengs that are 12 years old, or even older.
The quality of a ginseng is measured by its content of saponins and ginsenosides: respectively 80 mg to 120 mg/g and 10 mg to 12 mg/g.
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The benefits of red ginseng
That’s the other major difference between the two ginsengs: their benefits. If we had to sum it up in a few words, we’d say that white ginseng is intended for people seeking a soothing effect, while red ginseng, on the other hand, has an energizing effect.
To go into detail, red ginseng works in four areas.
A natural detoxifier
Red ginseng is indeed one of the detoxifiers, like cucumber or lemon. In other words, it helps our body, especially our kidneys and liver, eliminate the toxins brought by pollution and other harmful elements.
Furthermore, organic red ginsengs are particularly powerful when it comes to this detoxifying and anti-inflammatory ability. It’s saponin, which is abundant in the roots and is one of the well-known ginsenosides.
Moreover, we also find it in plants like quinoa or sarsaparilla.
A valuable ally against stress
Red ginseng is considered energizing. Yet it is indeed recommended for stress, whether physical, psychological, or biological.
In fact, Korean ginseng tea is renowned for its contributions to life balance. It boosts concentration and calms the nerves at the same time. It soothes tension while also having very interesting properties for stimulating memory. In other words, it channels our energy positively.
According to a 2011 Korean study, the plant is also recommended for symptoms of depression. Even better: it would reduce the risk of relapse.
Red ginseng and cardiovascular diseases
Among the benefits of red ginseng is its ability to fight cardiovascular diseases. It reduces bad cholesterol, fights hypertension and prevents arterial obstructions. Under these conditions, it may be recommended for men suffering from erectile problems, or for people who have difficulty with pulmonary recovery.
But at the same time, and although they are quite rare, cases of overconsumption or contraindications do exist.
In that case, ginseng in general (red or white) can have the opposite effects: heart palpitations, nervousness, even addiction. It is therefore not recommended for people with heart problems or sleep disorders.
Red ginseng for menopausal symptoms
According to a 2012 study conducted on 72 women, it helps control the unpleasant effects of menopause, notably sudden fatigue or hot flashes.
For this, ginseng stimulates estrogens, which boosts libido. In line with what we’ve said so far, red ginseng helps manage chronic stress and restores physical energy, which tends to be lacking during this period.
Dosage
Red ginseng can be easily found in pharmacies. It can be taken:
- As an infusion
- In capsules
- In mother tincture (prior maceration of the plant in an alcoholic liquid)
If taken as capsules, it should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
Since reports of adverse effects remain rare, ginseng can still be consumed year-round. That said, for an initial course, it is recommended not to continue it for more than three months.
