Ginseng
Korean, American, Siberian: which plants are sold as "ginseng", what ginsenosides on the label mean and how to choose.
This substance has no health claim authorised in the European Union. So we describe what it is and how it is taken, but do not say what it does in the body.
What it is
Several plants are sold as "ginseng". True ginsengs belong to the genus Panax: Korean or Asian (Panax ginseng) and American (Panax quinquefolius). "Siberian ginseng" is eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), a plant of another genus. Ginseng root has been used in Korean and Chinese cooking for centuries — in soups, teas and tonics.
Ginseng has no authorised health claims in the European Union, so we do not write about energy, focus or immunity; we help you make sense of the species and the label.
How to read the label
Panax extracts are standardised to ginsenosides — a group of root compounds, usually 4–15 %. Red ginseng is root that has been steamed and dried, white ginseng simply dried. Eleuthero contains no ginsenosides; it is standardised to eleutherosides. Check the species' Latin name on the pack.
How it is taken, and precautions
Take as the pack directs, usually in the morning. Ginseng is not recommended for children or for pregnant or breastfeeding women. People with high blood pressure, diabetes or sleep problems, and anyone on blood thinners, antidepressants or diabetes medicines, should ask a doctor first. Do not combine with a lot of caffeine.
Frequently asked questions
Is Siberian ginseng a ginseng?
No, it is eleuthero — a plant of another genus. True ginsengs belong to the genus Panax.
How is red ginseng different from white?
Red ginseng is steamed before drying, white simply dried. It is a way of processing the same root.
What are ginsenosides?
A group of ginseng root compounds that extracts are standardised to. The percentage on the label lets you compare products.
Products with ginseng
