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How to Extract Ginseng

Ginseng extract is used in many cultures for its curative properties. Natives Americans used it to treat everything from headaches to indigestion. The Chinese and Russians use ginseng to improve mental stamina and alertness as well as to protect against colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. The results of a study on ginseng published in the June 2001 issue of the medical journal "Antiviral Research" support the idea of using ginseng to fight off flu symptoms. Flu symptoms were found to last for a shorter period in those who consumed ginseng extract. Making ginseng extract is simple to accomplish at home.

Things You'll Need

  • Siberian ginseng
  • Tea strainer
  • Metal pot
  • Water
  • 100 proof vodka
  • Teapot
  • Glass mason jar
  • Amber glass dropper bottles
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Instructions

  1. Hot Water-Based Extraction

    • 1
      Ginseng tea can help fight off a cold.

      Buy finely cut dried ginseng root. The root should be firm, free of mold, and brown in color.

    • 2

      Boil a cup of water in a metal pot. Place one teaspoon of ginseng in a teapot and pour the boiling water over the ginseng.

    • 3

      Cover the teapot with the top and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Using a tea strainer to strain the ginseng tea into a cup.

    • 4

      According to health experts at the University of Maryland Health Center, you can drink ginseng tea 1-3 times a day for up to 3 months, followed by taking a few weeks without ginseng tea.

    Alcohol-Based Extraction

    • 5
      Store the tincture in glass dropper bottles.

      Place 1/2 cup dried ginseng root in a glass mason jar. Pour 2 1/2 cups of 100 proof vodka over the root and cover the jar with the lid

    • 6

      Shake the jar daily to mix the vodka and ginseng root.

    • 7

      Steep the ginseng in alcohol for 2 weeks. Strain the ginseng into amber glass dropper bottles and store in a cool cupboard. The tincture should be a golden yellow.

    • 8

      Mix 1 to 1 1/2 tsp. of tincture with 1 tbsp. of warm water. Experts from the University of Maryland Health center recommend taking this mixture 2 to 3 times a day for up to 3 months, followed by several weeks of not taking it.

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