Is Ginseng the Ingredient Your Wellness Routine Is Missing? 

Ginseng is everywhere. The popular ingredient shows up on the labels of energy drinks and herbal remedies, but have you ever actually seen it? With forked tendrils that many say look like a person’s legs, the small root looks deceptively ineffective, but the humble ginseng, used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine for centuries, is rumoured to cure headaches, improve memory, give you more energy, and help your body resist stress (to name just a few of its purported health benefits). And while (western) medical research on the root is inconclusive and ongoing, there are promising studies. Clinical research has shown that taking ginseng may even affect fatigue, menopause symptoms, and insulin response—possibly due to its chemical compounds like ginsenosides and gintonin—and a trial led by the Mayo Clinic (published in 2012) found that ginseng greatly helped boost energy for cancer patients undergoing treatment. Encouraging words, for a little root!

1. Drink ginseng tea

Tea made from dried ginseng root is widely available in health food stores. Ginseng is said to strengthen your immune system and reduce inflammation, so drinking ginseng tea daily could be an easy way to keep your body ready to fight off disease and infection. You can also use fresh sliced or grated ginseng to make tea, if you can find it.

2. Take ginseng capsules

Not much of a tea fan? Taking capsules made from powdered ginseng root may be a better bet for you. Doses of 200 milligrams to 1 gram have been studied in clinical trials, but many herbalists recommend starting with 200 milligram capsules and increasing as needed.

3. Eat food with ginseng

In Korean cuisine, you can find ginseng in many banchan (side dishes) and guk (soups). Many swear by samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) as the ultimate cure for hangovers, colds, or when you’re feeling tired or run down. You can also give insamju (ginseng-infused liquor) a shot.

4. Try ginseng skincare

Applied to skin, ginseng is said to encourage overall balance, support moisture retention, and have visible anti-aging benefits. Korean beauty brand Sulwhasoo has studied the benefits of ginseng in skincare for over 50 years and uses extracts from ginseng root, leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds in its Concentrated Ginseng line. According to Sulwhasoo’s research, ginseng helps the skin defend itself against damage (aka the root cause of aging) and boosts its ability to heal and regenerate. The results of a ginseng-infused skincare routine? Healthy, well-hydrated skin, smoother and firmer texture, and a naturally dewy glow.

Discover ginseng-powered skincare from Sulwhasoo. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements.