Panax quinquefolius

GINSENG

The Chinese have used the Ginseng Root as a qi (vital essence) tonic for more than 5000 years. They refer to it as the "King of Herbs" and its root as the "flower of life", claiming it has stimulating, strengthening qualities that preserve youthfulness.

Modern research has indeed shown that Ginseng is an adaptogenic, meaning it can increase stamina and stimulate resistance to stress. Ginseng is therefore widely used as a tonic during times of tension, even given to astronauts to counter the effects of zero-gravity, and to athletes, who have reportedly experienced up to 9% improvement in stamina when taking it.

Due to over-harvesting in the wild, American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) became rare toward the end of the 19th century and is a seriously at-risk herb species rarely seen in the wild*. Fortunately, "Siberian Ginseng" (Eleutherococcus sinticosus) possesses similar, possibly identical and even superior, medicinal value. Siberian Ginseng is therefore readily interchangeable with American Ginseng.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a woodland perennial with smooth stems and leaves, small greenish flowers and kidney-shaped red berries. It does not reach its medicinal potential until its roots are at least 7 years of age.

American Ginseng contains a large number of phytonutrients that stimulate and activate the skin's metabolism and blood flow, reduce keratinization, moisturize, soften, and enhance skin whiteness. It is considerd an important phytonutrient for regenerative skin care.

Skin Care Benefits:
Stimulating, Regenerative, Toning, Brightening

Alchemilla Products Containing this Herb:

Face Care
- Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
- Rehydrating Night Balm - Neroli
- Rehydrating Night Balm - Rose
- Rehydrating Night Balm - Rosewood

*For information about protecting native medicinal plants of North America, visit UPS - United Plant Savers.