Nutrition Value of Korean Ginseng Tea
Many Americans are opening their minds to alternative forms of treatment and medication--particularly, natural substances. Various cultures all over the world have used organic products, such as herbs and plants, to heal ailments for years. One of the leading medicinal plants in holistic, herbal medicine is the Korean ginseng. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Korean ginseng, also known as red ginseng, is grown in the cold northern mountains between Korea and China. It is harvested for at least six years and then steam cured, which gives it its dark reddish color. By steaming ginseng, the natural, powerful active ingredients remain and no changes are made to the biochemical compound. Afterward, it is then sun-dried and sold as is or liquefied into drinks.
History
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For years, Asians have used Korean ginseng to treat various health conditions. It is used to boost immune system, improve blood circulation, increase energy, stabilize high blood sugar and even treat erectile dysfunction. Although it has been widely used as a form of traditional herbal medicine, Western studies have stated similar benefits.
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Benefits
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The Journal of Psychopharmacology published a research study in 2005 that found a single dose of ginseng not only reduced blood glucose level but also improved cognitive mental performances.
Korean ginseng is considered an adaptogen because of its high level of antioxidants. An adaptogen is an herbal plant that increases the body's resistance to stress, fatigue, trauma and anxiety that are brought on naturally or chemically, such as through chemotherapy.
According to a 2004 article in the Alternative Medicine Review, red ginseng has continually been evident in tumor inhibition particularly during the highly sensitive promotion and progression phase. Red ginseng has often been subscribed to patients who undergo chemotherapy as means of boosting their immune system.
Types
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Korean ginseng can easily be found in natural, health shops, Asian markets and online. It is often sold as a tea or as an ingredient in an energizing drink. It is important to avoid drinks that do not have any other additives like sugar. Korean ginseng also is sold in a capsule form such as in a vitamin. Sometimes, the roots are sold dried, and these are easy to brew as a tea or can be added to soups. The daily recommended amount of Korean ginseng is 100 to 300 mg.
Considerations
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Although red ginseng is a natural product, precautions should still be taken. It is not recommended for children, pregnant women, elders and people who suffer from high blood pressure. It is also important to not overdose and to recognize any symptoms such as anxiety, excessive sweating, nausea, migraines and insomnia. Like any sort of medicine, doctors should always be consulted before taking it.
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