Ginseng Extract Process

Ginseng tea is golden in color.

Eastern countries, including Russia and China, have traditionally used Siberian ginseng to improve mental alertness and to prevent colds and flu. A 2001 study published in "Antiviral Research" found that flu symptoms lasted a shorter period in people who took ginseng extracts. Extracts are active ingredients removed from raw plant materials using a solvent, such as water or ethyl alcohol. Derived from the root of the plant, ginseng extracts are a popular means of taking the herb.

Things You'll Need

• Dried Siberian ginseng root
• Water
• 100 proof vodka
• Tea strainer
• Teapot
• Glass mason jar
• Amber glass dropper bottle

Instructions

Water-Based Extract (Tea)

1. Purchase finely cut dried ginseng root. The root is normally wrinkled, woody and brown in appearance. It should be firm and not spongy, free of fungus with no mold smell.

2. Place one tsp. ginseng root in a teapot and pour one cup boiling water over the root. Steep for five to 10 minutes, keeping the pot covered so the tea does not become overly cool. Strain the tea into a cup.

3. Drink the ginseng extract one to three times per day for up to three months, followed by two to three weeks of not taking the tea.

Alcohol-Based Extract (Tincture)

1. Place 1/2 cup dried ginseng root into the glass mason jar. Cover the root with two and a half cups of 100 proof vodka and cover tightly with the lid. To make a different amount of extract, use one part root to five parts alcohol.

2. Shake the jar daily to mix the alcohol and roots. The alcohol will become golden yellow in color over time.

3. Wait two weeks, then strain the extract into amber glass dropper bottles. Store the bottles in a cool dark cupboard.

4. Take one-half to one tsp. tincture mixed with one tbsp. warm water. Take the extract two to three times per day for up to three months, followed by two to three weeks of not taking it.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to your health care provider before taking repeated cycles of ginseng extract.

• People with high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea or narcolepsy, and pregnant or breastfeeding women, should not take ginseng extracts. Ginseng may possibly interact with certain medications, namely digitalis, blood thinners and sedatives. Side effects of ginseng extracts are rare and typically occur only when it is used for prolonged periods at high doses. Side effects can include insomnia, vomiting, drowsiness, diarrhea, hypertension, headache, confusion, irregular heart rhythm and nosebleed.

References

• "Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals"; Max Wichtl; 2004
• University of Maryland: Siberian Ginseng
• Quick access patient information on conditions, herbs & supplements; Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000
• International Bibliographic Information on Dietary Supplements: Antiviral Activity of an Extract Derived from Roots of Eleutherococcus Senticosus