Herb Gardening

Ginseng

The wonderful herb Ginseng has a very long history dating back to the Chinese dynasties. The famous Emperor, Shen Nung is known as the discoverer of ginseng as a tonic for the well being of the whole body. Ginseng is full of a substance named Adaptogens. This substance helps the body with restoration to good health and works without side effects even if too much is taken. It is possible to grow your own ginseng, though be aware that this herb is regulated by state and federal laws. We will discuss the uses, benefits and how to grow this wonderful herb in this article, so read on to discover the fantastic attributes of ginseng. 

Culinary uses:  Tea

Medical Use: Stress reducer. Studies have shown that it can normalize blood sugar in type 2 Diabetes, and it also works as a remedy for insomnia and chest congestion.

Growing Ginseng

Growing ginseng is a wonderful project for the home gardener. Check with your local farm service to discover just what state and federal laws apply to ginseng. Ginseng is a shade loving plant and requires well drained soil to keep it from developing disease. 
The plants grow very well in raised beds as well as in good rich soil. Winter gives a necessary dormant period for the plants that are perennials. 

Ginseng can be started from seed or roots. The roots are more costly, but give a head start to the plants and are easier to get the garden going than starting from seed. If you opt to use seed, buy from a reputable supplier. The seeds need to be stratified to be good seed. The seeds take approximately a year and a half to germinate; part of that time is a year long dormancy period. Planting seed in the fall will give you shoots in the spring. Seeds need to be one to two inches under the soil and just left alone. Ginseng does not want to be fussed over. 

Allow the soil to become fairly dry before watering. Ginseng does not require a lot of water. They really do best if you just leave them alone and let nature do the watering. This herb really does not care for fertilizer, so if you feel you must, use very small amounts. Too much fertilizer will burn the plants and cause disease.

Using Ginseng

Tea made from ginseng is used for a variety of health conditions. High cholesterol, increasing energy and endurance, reducing fatigue and the effects of being stressed and the prevention of infection are all medical applications for this herb. It is said that this herb also helps stop the degeneration of the blood system, could be beneficial to diabetics to lower blood sugar and increases mental and physical strength. As with any herbal or holistic treatment, consult your physician to make sure that there will not be adverse interaction with medications your doctor may have prescribed for you.

Ginseng can be used fresh, dried and used as a tea, and made into capsules for daily or weekly dosages. Many health food stores carry the product, so it is relatively easy to find..