Ginseng, a genus of slow-growing perennial plants, has been revered for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese and Korean practices. Its unique adaptogenic properties have captured the interest of modern health enthusiasts worldwide. While several species of ginseng exist, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) are the most widely recognized and utilized.
If you’re considering incorporating ginseng into your wellness routine, it’s crucial to choose high-quality products from reputable brands. By prioritizing safety and efficacy, you can harness the potential benefits of this ancient herb.
What is ginseng?
Ginseng plants are primarily native to Asia and North America. The plant thrives in cool, moist climates with rich, well-drained soil. It’s often found growing in shady forests, particularly under deciduous trees. The slow growth rate and specific environmental requirements contribute to its high value and make it susceptible to overharvesting.
The roots of ginseng plants are the part most commonly used in traditional medicine and modern supplements. After harvesting, ginseng roots are carefully dried and processed to preserve their medicinal properties.
Types of ginseng
- Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng): This type is native to Northeast Asia, including Korea, China and Russia. It’s often referred to as “true ginseng” and is believed to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress. †
- American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): Native to North America, particularly the eastern United States and Canada, American ginseng is also valued for its potential benefits. It’s commonly used to support the immune system and cognitive function. †
- South China ginseng (Panax notoginseng): This type is native to Southwest China and Vietnam. It’s often used to promote healthy blood circulation and normal inflammatory response in the body. †
The best ginseng supplements at Vitacost
When searching for a ginseng supplement – whether it’s for immune support, stress support, memory support or any of the other well-known benefits of ginseng – you might be surprised to discover how many products are on the market today.† To help you sift through the options, here are some of the best ginseng supplements I’ve discovdered at Vitacost, along with pros and cons of each.
Vitacost American Ginseng Extract
Vitacost American Ginseng Extract is is made from the root of the American ginseng plant. This high-quality, affordable formula from the trusted Vitacost brand delivers 500 mg of ginseng per serving. A single serving consists of two capsules.
Note that this product, like all Vitacost brand supplements, is manufactured in a facility that adheres to the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs). Additionally, it’s free of common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, crustacean shellfish, fish, soy, gluten and titanium dioxide.
PROS:
- High-quality ginseng extract
- Low price (around 17 cents per serving)
- Manufactured in cGMP facility
- Free of major allergens
CONS:
- Not standardized to contain ginsenosides
- Plastic bottle
Solgar Korean Ginseng Root Extract
Solgar’s supplement delivers 250 mg of Korean ginseng extract, along with 200 mg of whole Korean ginseng powder, per single-capsule serving. This combination of ginseng extract plus whole herb powder is a smart way to obtain the benefits of ginseng.
Unlike other ginseng products, this formula contains Korean red ginseng, which is said to be more stimulating than other forms of ginseng. †
Solgar is a dietary supplement brand that has been in business for over 75 years. The company is committed to providing high-quality, science-backed supplements that are made with the finest ingredients. Solgar products are manufactured in the United States and adhere to strict quality standards.
PROS
- Standardized to contain 8% ginsenosides
- Recyclable glass bottle
- Contains both extract and whole herb ginseng
- Contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
CONS
- Moderate price (about 35 cents per serving)
NOW Foods Panax Ginseng
Now Foods Panax Ginseng formula delivers 500 mg of Panax ginseng (i.e. Asian ginseng) per serving. It’s free of GMOs and animal-based ingredients. The recommended serving is two capsules daily, which provides 1 gram of ginseng complex.
NOW Foods is a respected brand that has been making high-quality products since 1968. They carefully select suppliers of raw materials used in their supplements to ensure purity and potency.
PROS:
- High-potency Asian ginseng extract
- Cost-effective
- Trusted brand
CONS:
- Not standardized for ginsenosides
- Plastic bottle
NutraChamps Korean Panax Ginseng
NutraChamps Korean Panax Ginseng is available in capsules that contain 1,650 mg of Korean ginseng per serving. The recommended serving size is 2 capsules per day.
This product is standardized to contain 5% ginsenosides, the key phytochemicals present in ginseng. It’s also free of animal ingredients, GMOs, gluten and soy.
NutraChamps is a dietary supplement company based in Scottsdale, Ariz. that was founded in 2016. They’re committed to providing high-quality, science-backed supplements that are made with the finest ingredients. NutraChamps products are manufactured in the United States and adhere to strict quality standards.
PROS:
- Standardized for 5% ginsenosides
- Considered “extra strength” with 1,650 mg per serving
- Lab verified
CONS:
- New brand with limited history
- Plastic bottle
Action Labs Ginseng PowerMax 4X
This multi-ingredient formula combines Panax ginseng, Korean ginseng and American ginseng in one formula. This supplement also contains Eleuthero, a herb also known as Siberian ginseng (though it’s technically not in the ginseng family).
Action Labs is a new brand that is focused on making products that support male health and wellness. Unlike other brands, Action Labs has a guaranteed potency claim on their ginseng, to ensure that you can buy with confidence.
PROS:
- Blends 3 different types of ginseng
- Focused on male health and wellbeing
- Contains other supportive herbs (i.e. eleuthero root)
CONS:
- High price per serving
- Plastic bottle
Other ways to add ginseng to your diet
While dietary supplements are an easy way to add ginseng to your diet, ginseng teas, ginseng royal honey or ginseng tinctures are also available. The level of ginseng in these products will not be as high as what you’ll obtain through supplementation, but beverages and foods are another way to reap the benefits of ginseng today.
In summary
When choosing a ginseng supplement, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include the type of ginseng, the dosage, standardization, delivery form and, lastly, the brand’s reputation.
Also, as with any supplement, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking ginseng, especially if you are taking other medications that might pose interaction risks, or if you have any health conditions.
†These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.