Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is an herb that has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Valued for its broad range of benefits, it is traditionally used in Chinese Medicine to enhance energy levels and relieve fatigue. Korean ginseng is often featured in a range of vitamins and supplements, including Swisse’s Energy Boost Smart Melts.

Read on to learn more about this ingredient, how it differs from other types of ginseng, its health benefits, safe usage and why Korean Ginseng is popular in Australia to support physical stamina.

What is Korean ginseng?

While there are several different types of ginseng, Korean ginseng comes from the Panax ginseng plant, which is native to the cool climates of Korea, China and Siberia¹.

The root of the plant is most often used for health purposes², and while it contains a number of active compounds, the health benefits are believed to stem from the ginsenosides (or panaxosides)². These actives are thought to contribute to the support of cognitive function. As a dietary supplement, Korean ginseng is often taken orally in teas, powders, capsules and dried herbs³.   

What is the difference between ginseng and Korean ginseng?

There are several types of ginseng, including Korean ginseng, American ginseng and Siberian ginseng. Each of these herbs contains different active ingredients and varying health benefits.

When it comes to Korean vs Siberian ginseng, there are a few key differences that set these two herbs apart. As we’ve already mentioned, Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) contains saponins known as ginsenosides, whereas Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) contains a different active ingredient called eleutherosides⁴. While American and Korean ginseng both contain ginsenosides, Korean ginseng contains high levels of this active compound³. Simply put, the different active compounds offer different effects and uses.

Korean ginseng is believed to support mental focus and physical stamina while American ginseng is less stimulating than Korean ginseng³.

What does Korean ginseng do?

As an adaptogen, Korean ginseng’s benefits typically lie in its ability to support general health and wellbeing².

Here are some of the other benefits of Korean ginseng:

• Stamina: When it comes to physical endurance, there’s evidence to suggest that Korean ginseng supports physical stamina and is traditionally used in Chinese Medicine to reduce fatigue⁴.
• Maintain focus: Korean ginseng is believed to support cognitive function, and mental clarity⁴.
• Immune support: Panax ginseng supports the immune system^2,3.
• Cognition: Panax ginseng supports cognitive function.

How to use Korean ginseng

Available in a number of different forms, from powders and capsules to teas and dried herbs3, there are several ways you can incorporate Korean ginseng into your daily routine. It can also be used in soups, stews and yoghurts, however, this can be a complicated preparation process.

If you’re after a simple option that helps to mask the bitterness of taking raw ginseng, you can also take them in supplement form. Swisse’s Energy Boost Smart Melt tablets are a convenient alternative. Designed to quickly dissolve on your tongue, these smart melts offer a rapidly absorbed format and come in a delicious sour peach flavour. Plus, the small tube packaging makes them easy to pop into your bag for an energy boost on the go.

Unlock the power of Korean ginseng with Swisse

Whether you’re looking to support physical stamina, concentration and mental function or healthy immune system function, it could be worth considering whether incorporating Korean ginseng into your daily routine is right for you. Try Swisse’s Energy Boost Smart Melt for a quick and convenient pick-me-up while you’re on the go.  

For more wellness and nutrition tips, learn more about the importance of a healthy gut and immunity-boosting foods on the Swisse Wellness Hub.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

We recommend that you consult your primary healthcare professional when considering your supplementary routine, as they can best advise on what’s right for your individual needs.

References:

1. WebMD. (2019). Panax Ginseng: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. Webmd.com. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1000/panax-ginseng 
2. NCCIH. (2020b, August). Asian Ginseng. NCCIH. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/asian-ginseng
3. R. Morgan Griffin. (2008, April 15). Ginseng Supplements. WebMD; WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-ginseng
4. Mount Sinai. (n.d.). Asian ginseng Information | Mount Sinai - New York. Mount Sinai Health System. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/asian-ginseng
5. Mount Sinai. Siberian ginseng Information | Mount Sinai - New York. Mount Sinai Health System. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/siberian-ginseng
6. Song SW, Kim HN, Shim JY, Yoo BY, Kim DH, Lee SH, Park JS, Kim MJ, Yoo JH, Cho B, Kang HC, Kim KM, Kim SS, Kim KS. Safety and tolerability of Korean Red Ginseng in healthy adults: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Ginseng Res. 2018 Oct;42(4):571-576. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2018.07.002. Epub 2018 Jul 24. PMID: 30337818; PMCID: PMC6190494.