The medicinal part is the dried root. The plant is native to China. It is cultivated in China, Korea, Japan and Russia. Other names include American ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Fivefingers and red berry.

PRIMARY USES

Used for lack of stamina.

AVAILABILITY

It is found in drug infusions, powder and galenic preparations for internal use. Various standardized preparations containing Ginseng root are available.

SAFETY

Overdosage can cause palpitations, insomnia, pruritus, heart pain, decreased sexual potency, vomiting, hemorrhagic diathesis, headache and epistaxis. Ingestion of large amounts can be fatal. Massive overdosages can cause hypertension.

Source: Physician’s Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines