Tag: Panax

For millennia, ginseng has been revered in traditional medicine for its revitalizing properties. The seemingly simple root is, in fact, a complex powerhouse of active components, making the question of what is ginseng made of essential to understanding its benefits. The root contains a unique blend of chemicals that contribute to its role as an adaptogen and a therapeutic herb.

Across the globe, the name 'ginseng' is applied to several different plants from the *Panax* genus and beyond, often leading to confusion. This leads to a common question: does ginseng have another name? The answer is not just one, but many, with each name reflecting a specific species or regional variation.

Ginsenosides, a class of triterpene saponins, are found almost exclusively in plants from the *Panax* genus. While the roots of the ginseng plant are a source, different parts, like leaves and fine roots, can contain distinct ginsenoside profiles and higher concentrations.

Although many fruits offer essential nutrients, no typical fruit, like an apple or banana, naturally contains ginseng. Bioactive ginsenosides are found in the root and berries of the *Panax* plant, the true source of ginseng.

For thousands of years, the fleshy root of the ginseng plant has been highly prized in traditional medicine, but new research shows that the leaves, which are far more accessible and cost-effective, hold significant potential. This growing body of evidence sheds light on the question, "Are ginseng leaves good for anything?" beyond simply being a part of the plant's growth cycle.