With chart-topping boyband BTS and hit Korean dramas like Squid Game, not to mention the global popularity of K-beauty for skincare, the Hallyu Wave has firmly established itself and is here to stay. Korean red ginseng seems poised to be the next star in the spotlight.
The scientific term “Panax” denotes the botanical classification of ginseng. Its etymology traces back to the Greek tongue, signifying “universal remedy” or “all-healing.” Within this specific plant genus, we have Korean red ginseng, a unique cluster of bioactive substances referred to as ginsenosides, an exclusive class of compounds unparalleled in any other botanical.
The use of ginseng has a long history in Asia, especially Korean red ginseng, which is ginseng that’s been steamed and dried in the sun. This type of ginseng is known to have the most types of ginsenosides, which are its active compounds. People in ancient Korea have been using it since the early 1000s.
With all that being said, in this article, we will dive deeper into the advantages and benefits of Korean red ginseng, its established applications in research, and factors to consider when purchasing ginseng supplements.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen.
What is Korean Red Ginseng?
Korean ginseng has a lot of other names, such as red ginseng, panax ginseng, Chinese ginseng, and Asian ginseng. Regardless of its identity, Korean red ginseng is a root that has been used for various health benefits for thousands of years in the form of herbal medicine. Depending on how it is processed, you can get Korean red ginseng or even white.
Korean ginseng, which originates from Asia, and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) are the two most commonly utilized types of ginseng. It’s important to note that Siberian ginseng is a distinct plant with its own set of applications, so it should not be confused with Korean and American ginseng.
Both Asian and American ginseng contain ginsenosides, which are natural active compounds. These ginsenosides are believed to be responsible for the medicinal properties associated with ginseng, such as vasodilation (the relaxation and dilation of blood vessels), antioxidant effects, and its potential for reducing inflammation and even cancer-fighting properties.
Ginseng is classified as an adaptogen, a substance in herbal medicine thought to help the body cope with stress and improve overall well-being.
The Health Benefits of Korean Red Ginseng
Ginseng is a treasure trove of pharmacological elements, including a series of tetracyclic triterpenoid saponins, polyacetylenes, polyphenolic compounds, and acidic polysaccharides.
To make things simpler and more clear, here are some health benefits of Korean red ginseng that you may experience through its use.
1. Korean red ginseng and erectile dysfunction
Korean red ginseng, steeped in tradition, has been a go-to remedy for addressing erectile dysfunction (ED). Scientific investigations suggest its potential efficacy in relieving ED symptoms.
Research hints at ginseng’s ability to enhance erectile function, yet it’s worth noting that more comprehensive studies are required before we can confidently assert its benefits.
The charm of Korean red ginseng in helping ED may stem from its role in stimulating nitric oxide production and inducing the relaxation of blood vessels, leading to improved blood circulation. This is in a similar fashion to what you’d experience through ED medications like Viagra and Cialis, also known as PDE5 inhibitors.
These inhibitors thwart an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 5, which normally triggers the contraction of blood vessel muscles.
The net result is the widening of arteries throughout the body, culminating in enhanced blood flow to the penile region, ultimately translating to improved erections. Much like its pharmaceutical counterparts, Panax ginseng extract may offer a helping hand in bolstering sexual function.
2. Boosts brain function
Among the most promising research on the advantages of Korean red ginseng is a notable 12-week investigation centered on Alzheimer’s patients stands out. At the study’s conclusion, the group that received ginseng demonstrated enhancements in cognitive performance when compared to the control group. Notably, ginseng’s cognitive-boosting potential also extends its reach to younger individuals.
In a trial that engaged children with ADHD, the combination of ginseng and omega-3 supplements has showcased its prowess by enhancing memory recall and attention span. In another study involving healthy adults, ginseng demonstrated its remarkable abilities by elevating cognitive performance in mental arithmetic tasks while alleviating mental fatigue.
3. It may improve energy levels
Korean red ginseng helps improve physical and mental vitality, particularly for those grappling with feelings of weakness and fatigue. In a study involving 21 men and 69 women, ginseng yielded favorable outcomes, proving effective in alleviating chronic fatigue.
In another 2014 study focused on individuals undergoing cancer treatment, ginseng demonstrated its ability to relieve fatigue caused by cancer. It’s worth noting that the energizing effects of Korean red ginseng were primarily documented in those currently receiving treatment, with statistically significant improvements not observed in individuals who had already completed their cancer treatment.
4. It may reduce high blood sugar
The bioactive compounds in ginseng, known as ginsenosides, play a pivotal role in delivering anti-diabetic benefits to individuals with prediabetes and those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
A study comprising up to 12 human trials on diabetes patients supports the notion that ginseng enhances glucose uptake and regulates insulin production, thereby exerting its anti-diabetic effects.
5. Boosts immune system
Several studies have looked into the potential impact of Korean red ginseng on the immune system, with a primary focus on individuals who are immunocompromised due to cancer or those who have successfully recovered from cancer.
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Notably, the participants in the studies showed more robust immune system indicators when they consistently incorporated ginseng into their routines over an extended period, in contrast to those who did not do so.
6. Antioxidant properties may reduce inflammation
Korean red ginseng has antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation. According to some test-tube studies, it has been shown that ginseng extracts could inhibit inflammation and decrease oxidative damage to cells, which can lead to chronic disease.
There are some promising human trials as well. A study in 12 active males found that short-term supplementation with ginseng extract can reduce exercise-related muscle damage and reduced markers of inflammation when compared to a placebo.
Another larger study in 2014 followed 71 postmenopausal females who consumed 3g of Korean red ginseng or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The antioxidant activity and oxidative stress markers were measured after, and it was concluded that Korean red ginseng may help decrease oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.
Utilize Korean Red Ginseng for Skin Benefits
Ginseng root has bioactive compounds such as pantothenic acid, vitamins B1, B2, and B12, minerals, saponins, and polysaccharides that offer various anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits.
Some Korean red ginseng benefits for skin health may include:
- Promotes production of collagen and skin elasticity
- Helps decrease signs of aging and wrinkles
- Contains anti-inflammatory properties
- Reduces dark undereye circles
- Brightens, softens and minimizes puffiness of your skin
It is no surprise that ginseng has held a timeless place as a skincare and beauty essential in Korea. Throughout centuries, women have indulged in the ritual of visiting specialized ginseng bathhouses, immersing themselves in ginseng-infused water, all in pursuit of purity, luminosity, and radiance.
These ginseng baths also served as a customary pre-wedding ritual, further emphasizing the enduring allure of ginseng in Korean beauty traditions.
Cooking with Korean Red Ginseng
The unending versatility of Korean red ginseng prevails. While ginseng is renowned for its medicinal properties, it also finds its way into the culinary realm and the world of teas.
The whole ginseng root, ginseng tea cuts, and ginseng slices are frequently employed in preparing soups and infusions. Moreover, these components can be consumed as they are, without any elaborate preparation, or even chewed on for a natural and unadorned ginseng experience.
Add Korean Red Ginseng to Your Regimen
With all the benefits mentioned and showcased in this article, it’s no surprise that Korean red ginseng is in such high demand. The advantages seem endless when you include this root into your daily regimen, whether it be through supplements, skincare, or through your nutrition and meals.
At Holistic Bin, we wanted to source the highest quality Korean red ginseng we could find, and after searching high and low, we found a Panax Ginseng Meyer that belongs to the Araliaceae family.
You can find our Holistic Bin Korean Red Ginseng in 50-gram pouches as well as in capsule form. Try it today and experience why this root has been trending for so long!