Ginseng: Adaptogen for Vitality
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Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is one of the most-studied adaptogens in the world, traditionally used to support stamina and studied today for energy and cognitive performance. It powers our caffeine-free Energy broth.
What is ginseng?
Ginseng is the fleshy root of the Panax plant, most famously grown in Korea and China. Its active compounds are a family of saponins called ginsenosides, which are the focus of most ginseng research. True ginseng (Panax) is distinct from unrelated plants like Siberian eleuthero.
How is ginseng used in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginseng (ren shen) is the archetypal qi tonic, traditionally used to strengthen the body's foundational energy, support the Spleen and Lung, and restore vitality after fatigue or illness. It was so prized that fine wild roots were worth their weight in gold.
Ginseng and modern wellness
Modern research studies ginseng as an adaptogen for energy and cognition. In randomized, placebo-controlled research, Panax ginseng has been associated with improvements in aspects of cognitive performance and reductions in mental fatigue.1 A randomized crossover study of ginseng reported effects on cognitive function, fatigue recovery, and exercise performance.2 In our broth, ginseng joins protein-rich stock for steady vitality without caffeine.
How Súp Wellness uses ginseng
Ginseng is the headline botanical in our Ginseng Burdock Vitality Recharge, our savory, caffeine-free alternative to coffee. Founder Jacqueline is not a coffee drinker, instead she favors our ginseng broth to power through her day.
Frequently asked questions
What is ginseng good for?
Ginseng is a classic adaptogen studied for supporting energy, reducing mental fatigue, and aspects of cognitive performance, with a long traditional use as a qi tonic.
Is ginseng a stimulant like caffeine?
No. Ginseng is an adaptogen, not a stimulant, so it does not deliver a caffeine-style jolt or crash.
When should I drink ginseng broth?
Morning or early afternoon is ideal, whenever your energy usually dips. It is caffeine-free, so it will not disrupt sleep.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Súp Wellness products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources
- Antifatigue effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PMC3629193. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3629193/
- Acute effects of wild ginseng extract on exercise performance, cognitive function, and fatigue recovery: a randomized crossover study. MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8937/5/1/5