There are eleven different varieties of ginseng growing naturally around the world, but the two most popular varieties in use today are Chinese and American ginseng. While these naturally growing herbs are in the same plant family, they both have different benefits for users.
One thing they have in common is their availability today. You can find ginseng selling as a natural herbal remedy as well as in pill form as a dietary supplement. It is best known for its ability to increase energy levels, but there are many other benefits to taking these supplements.
American Ginseng
Wisconsin has become known for its commercial production of American grown ginseng, even though you can no longer find it in the wild there because of its ability to turn a profit for big businesses. This form of ginseng grows naturally along the Eastern border of the United States, which is why it is referred to as American Ginseng.
The most well known reason to take this form of ginseng is to increase energy levels, which is why it is often incorporated in products that claim to boost metabolism or increase the pace of weight loss. That is a legitimate benefit of taking American ginseng, but there are some other benefits as well:
1. Reducing body temperature
2. Soothing the lungs
3. Increasing body hydration
In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that American Ginseng brings harmony to the body by balancing the yin and the yang. In the modern world, it is taken as a general supplement to increase energy, calm stress or anxiety, and bring stability to mood.
There are many minerals and amino acids found in American Ginseng which are nutritional for the human body. Yet, this supplement is not taken as a source of nutrition.
Chinese Ginseng
Chinese Ginseng obviously comes from China and delivers a lot of the same benefits as American Ginseng. It is used to relieve stress and ease the mind of anxiety and is well known for its ability to soothe the mind and body. Yet, there are some other benefits to taking the Chinese version of this natural root:
Just like the American version, Chinese Ginseng is known today as a natural supplement to promote overall health. It is used to help with mental disorders, anxiety and other emotional problems, yet it can be used to deliver increased energy and just keep the body healthy as well.
A Note on Varieties
Now that you know there are different varieties of ginseng growing around the world, you should never settle for generic product just labeled "ginseng." Look for products that identify the type of ginseng they include, such as Chinese Ginseng or American Ginseng. You are more likely to get a high quality product this way, plus you will know what to expect in terms of results. Since different types of ginseng can be beneficial for different things, it makes no sense to take a random "ginseng" product without knowing the variety incorporated into the pill.
When deciding between American Ginseng and Chinese Ginseng, keep in mind the subtle differences in benefits. Remember that not all sources of Ginseng are the same so you need to find products that use pure Chinese or American Ginseng.