By Kejal Shah, Nutrivity
Ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. There are many varieties of this herb, but the most popular are American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng).
American and Asian ginseng vary in their concentration of active compounds and their effects on the body. According to some earlier studies, it is thought that American ginseng works as a soothing agent, whilst the Asian type has an energetic impact. Ginsenosides and gintonin are two important substances found in ginseng. The synergistic effects of these substances promote health.
Health Advantages:
- Boost Immune System: Ginseng can improve immunological performance and may raise immune cell counts.
- Reduce Inflammation: Ginseng has been demonstrated to assist in the reduction of inflammatory indicators and to provide protection against oxidative stress.
- Enhance Memory: Studies have indicated that ginseng enhances memory and reduces stress. It may also be helpful in preventing cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and anxiety, however, more study is required in this area.
- Improve erectile dysfunction: Ginseng may lessen the signs and symptoms of erectile dysfunction by reducing tissue oxidative stress and increasing blood flow to the penile muscles.
- Cancer: Ginsenosides in ginseng appear to control inflammation, offer an antioxidant defence, and preserve cell health, which may help lower the risk of some cancers.
- : By reducing oxidative damage and boosting cellular energy generation, ginseng may aid in the battle against weariness and improve physical performance.
- Blood sugar level reduction: Ginseng, particularly fermented red ginseng, may help boost insulin production, improve the absorption of blood sugar into cells, and offer an antioxidant defense.
Ways to Add Ginseng to your Diet
There are several methods to ingest ginseng root.
- You may eat it raw or just steam it to make it softer.
- In order to produce tea, it can also be stewed in water. Simply soak freshly cut ginseng in hot water for a few minutes to do this.
- Ginseng may also be used in a variety of recipes, including soups and stir-fried foods.
- The extract is also available in powder, tablet, pill, and oil form.
Recipes to Try
Mushroom Ginseng Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 pcs Ginseng roots(Ginseng roots- 2 pcs)
- 4 pcs mushrooms
- 1/2 cup Chickpeas (channa) (soak in water for 2 hours)
- 7 cups Water
- To taste Salt
Instructions:
- Wash and chop the fresh mushrooms. If you use dried mushrooms, soak them in water for 15 minutes. Then cut it into pieces.
- Soak chickpeas in water for at least 2 hours. Then, drain the water and keep it aside.
- Next, put all the ingredients in a pot. Turn the stove on and bring it to a boil.
- Simmer the soup on medium to low heat for 45 minutes.
- Add salt and stir well.
- Pour the soup into bowls. Serve hot.
Refreshing Ginseng Tea
Ingredients:
- 10 pcs Dried ginseng root small (peeled)
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 5 cups Water
Instructions:
- Gather and wash all the ingredients. Next, peel the ginseng roots and slice them thinly.
- In a bowl, pour honey and add ginseng roots. Keep it aside for 5-10 minutes.
- Heat water over a high flame in a separate pot. Heat the water but do not boil it
- Pour this water over the ginseng mixture.
- Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain and serve hot.