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What is the difference between American ginseng and ginseng?

2026-04-10 05:14:18

### The difference between American ginseng and ginseng

American ginsengandGinsengAlthough they belong to the Araliaceae family, they have significant differences in origin, nature, flavor, efficacy and application. American ginseng is mainly produced in North America. It has a cool nature and is suitable for people with yin deficiency and strong fire. Ginseng is mainly produced in Asia. It has a warm nature and is suitable for people with qi deficiency and weak bodies. The two also have different emphasis on ingredients. American ginseng contains more saponin Rb1, while ginseng mainly contains saponin Rg1. The following is a detailed comparison:

Comparative itemAmerican ginsengGinseng
scientific namePanax quinquefoliusPanax ginseng
OriginUnited States, CanadaChina, South Korea, Russia
Sexual tasteCool, slightly bitter and sweetWarm, sweet and slightly bitter
core ingredientsHigh content of saponin Rb1High content of saponin Rg1

Li Shizhen's "Compendium of Materia Medica" in the Ming Dynasty recorded that ginseng can "tonify the five internal organs and soothe the mind", while the "Compendium of Materia Medica" in the Qing Dynasty included American ginseng for the first time, saying it "reduces fire and nourishes the lungs". Modern research shows that American ginseng is more suitable for people with summer or hot constitution, while ginseng is suitable for use in winter or with cold constitution.

Common manufacturers includeTongrentang(Ginseng products such as "Red Ginseng Oral Liquid"),Xu's ginseng(American ginseng lozenges) etc. Use according to medical advice, and pregnant women and patients with high blood pressure should use with caution.

What is the difference between American ginseng and ginseng?

References:
1. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition
2. "Chinese Materia Medica" Shanghai Science and Technology Press
3. Public report of Canadian American Ginseng Growers Association

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