Ginseng, Japanese ginseng

Panax pseudoginseng

Physical Characteristics

Panax pseudoginseng is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.7 m (2ft 4in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas and Burma.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Drink Tea Young leaves and shoots - cooked as a vegetable[272]. The roots are chewed, used as a flavouring in liqueurs or made into a tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antiinflammatory Antiseptic Aphrodisiac Cardiotonic Diuretic Expectorant Haemostatic Hypoglycaemic Stimulant The roots and the flowers are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, diuretic, expectorant, haemostatic, hypoglycaemic and stimulant[176, 238, 272]. The root is used internally in the treatment of indigestion, vomiting, coronary heart disease and angina[238, 272]. The roots are also used both internally and externally in the treatment of nosebleeds, haemorrhages from the lungs, digestive tract and uterus, and injuries[238]. The roots are harvested in the autumn, preferably from plants 6 - 7 years old, and can be used fresh or dried[238]. The flowers are used to treat vertigo and dizziness[238].

Known Hazards

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid if on anticoagulants or ticlodipine (for blood clot formation) [301].