Description of American Ginseng

American ginseng has a gnarly, tan-colored root which is the part of the plant most used. Ginseng means "essence of the earth in the form of a man." In fact, the root does look a little like a human body. American ginseng is of the species panax which means "all illness." American ginseng has been used to cure illnesses of all kinds for thousands of years.

Above the Ground

• While the root is the most used part of American ginseng, other parts have been used as well. The plant has dark green leaves, yellow green to white umbrella shaped flowers and red berries. It may grow 16 to 20 inches tall and is not ready to harvest until it is about 5 years old.

How American Ginseng is Grown

• American ginseng (its Latin name is panax quinquefolia) is also known as redberry, five fingers and tartar root. It is in big demand for its varied healing properties and is expensive. Wild American ginseng is extensively harvested, and the plant is now also farm grown. The seeds are planted in the fall and not disturbed. It is recommended that straw or another insulating type of mulch be placed over them. The young plants will emerge in spring.

Uses for American Ginseng

• American ginseng is best known for its stimulant properties. It is used to promote increased energy, decrease fatigue and improve memory. It may be useful in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. American ginseng lowers blood sugar in those with Type II Diabetes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, one study showed that the berries actually worked better on lowering blood sugar than the root,. American ginseng root may prevent certain types of cancer and increases the effects of chemotherapy in breast cancer.

How to Use

• American ginseng can be purchased in pill and liquid forms as well as fresh. It is not recommended for use in children. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, appropriate adult doses are as follows:

  Fresh root: 1 to 2 g, once daily for up to 3 months
  Dried root: 1/2 to 2 g, chew and swallow once daily
  Tincture (1:5): 1 to 2 tsp., 1 to 3 times daily
  Fluid extract (1:1): 1/4 to 1/2 tsp., 1 to 3 times daily
  Standardized extract: 100 to 200 mg, 1 to 3 times daily, standardized to contain 4 percent to 5 percent ginsenosides

Side Effects

• Side effects of the use of American ginseng include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Because of the stimulant properties of the root, other side effects may include elevated blood pressure, nosebleeds, anxiety, insomnia and euphoria. American ginseng and other botanicals should be used with the assistance of health care personnel who have knowledge and experience using botanicals.