Ginseng is a name associated primarily with plants of the Panax genus and their characteristic roots. They occupy an important place in the history of East Asian herbalism and trade in plant raw materials. The branched root, sometimes resembling a human figure, has become a recognizable symbol of this group of plants.
Characteristics and context
In practice, various species appear under the term "ginseng", especially Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius. This name is also used commercially for plants outside the genus Panax, for example eleutherococcus, also known as Siberian ginseng. These are not interchangeable ingredients. Additionally, the terms "red" and "white" may describe how the root is processed. The exact species, plant part and extract parameters are therefore more useful than just a general term. Ginsenosides are one of the characteristic groups of compounds specific to Panax.
The full botanical name provides the most information, not the Polish term itself. Panax ginseng, another species of the genus Panax and the raw material commercially called ginseng do not have to have the same composition. Also write down the part of the plant used. This identification allows you to compare similar preparations, instead of comparing products only according to the large number on the front of the packaging.
Meaning and application
The weight of the powdered root is not equivalent to the weight of the extract. In the extract description, look for the DER ratio and possible standardization, for example for ginsenosides. DER informs about the relationship of the raw material to the obtained preparation, and the percentage of standardization informs about the group of compounds being determined. None of these provisions alone guarantees the effect of the finished supplement.
Prepare four columns: species, plant part, amount in a full daily dose and standardization. Only then compare the cost per portion and the number of portions per package. A preparation containing several extracts can provide the mass of the entire mixture. If the amount of ginseng itself is not listed, do not calculate it based on where you are on the list.
In practice
The traditional use of a plant and the research results of a specific extract are different types of information. They do not automatically transfer to any capsule with the same password. When taking medications, it is a good idea to discuss the label with your pharmacist. Use evaluation should be based on the full formula, warnings and your own situation, not on the promise of a quick boost.