It consists of the roots of panax ginsing (Araliaceae) and related species such as P. quinquifolium and P. notoginseng.

Commercial Importance

One of the most ancient drugs of China, ginseng is considered a universal medication in oriental medicine. It has been used for centuries as a tonic, a stimulant to overcome physical and mental fatigue and to counter many conditions arising from the onset of old age. Recently it has become a popular remedy even in the west and is available as a health food in the form of powders, extracts and teas for improvement of stamina, concentration and resistance to stress and disease. It is considered an ‘adaptogen’ as it helps the body adapt to stress and is popularly promoted as an aphrodisiac, as a performance and endurance enhancer. Modern pharmacological research has reported an array of biological properties for several of its constituents. Many ginseng products are available as OTC products either for oral administration or as cosmetic preparations. Demand for raw material for ginseng-based products has recently increased dramatically.