Changbai Mountain Ginseng

Ginseng can be broadly categorized into two types: Asian ginseng produced in China, Korea, and North Korea, and American ginseng produced in the United States and Canada. Chinese ginseng is produced in the northeastern province of Jilin. Changbai Mountain Ginseng (CMG), scientifically known as Panax ginseng C.A. Mey, is a traditional medicinal herb that thrives in Northeast China, specifically at altitudes in between 1000 to 2000 meters within the Changbai Mountain Range.

The province of Jilin serves as the cradle and primary cultivation region for this prized ginseng variety. Following the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, "Changbai Mountain Wild Ginseng" has been acknowledged as the emblematic representation of Jilin Province and has gained the prestigious status of being a Chinese national geographical indication product. The distinctive cold and humid ecological setting along the 40th parallel north, coupled with fertile, deep humus-rich soil, renders it the most suitable habitat for cultivating ginseng, thus earning global recognition as a premium ginseng production region.

To preserve the purity and high quality of "Changbai Mountain Ginseng," every aspect of the production process adheres rigorously to the standards set by "Changbai Mountain Ginseng." This has led to the establishment of a comprehensive three-tier quality traceability system. In line with the national standard GB/T 18765-2015 for the identification and grading of wild ginseng, ginseng that naturally matures in the deep mountain forests for over 15 years is classified as Wild Ginseng.

Ginseng, a perennial herbaceous plant, is renowned for its medicinal and nourishing properties, with various parts of the plant, such as the root, stem, leaf, and flower, offering various therapeutic benefits. To distinguish wild mountain ginseng, one must consider its "five forms" (Mustache, reed, skin, lines, and body) and "six characteristics" (spiritual, dull, old, young, horizontal, and smooth).

Age of Changbai Mountain Wild Ginseng

Determining the age of ginseng typically involves examining the number of "reed bowls" on the main body of the ginseng plant, which is a method for estimating the years of growth of mountain ginseng. Ginseng is a perennial plant with stems that shed in the autumn and regenerate in the spring, leaving behind a mark (commonly referred to as a reed bowl) each year. Each reed bowl corresponds to one year of growth. However, it is important to note that if there are ten reed bowls, it does not necessarily mean the ginseng has grown for only ten years; often, an additional two or three years should be added to account for the ginseng's dormant periods.

Wild ginseng is categorized into three grades based on the number of reed bowls: 15-20 years for second-grade ginseng, over 20 years for first-grade ginseng, and over 30 years for special-grade ginseng.

Difference Between Asian Ginseng and American Ginseng

For centuries, ginseng has held a revered place in traditional Chinese medicine. Two of its most prominent varieties, American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius) and Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng), stand out as the most widely recognized and utilized ginseng. Each type contains distinct concentrations of active compounds and exerts different effects on the body. American Ginseng is believed to induce relaxation, while its Asian counterpart is well known for its invigorating properties. The magic within ginseng lies in its rich composition of ginsenosides and gintonin, which complement each other to offer a myriad of health benefits.

Changbai Mountain Ginseng: Unlocking Its Remarkable Health Benefits

Enhance Sexual Function Ginseng can significantly enhance sexual function, well known in traditional Chinese medicine as "strengthening and tonifying the kidneys." Ginseng has a significant therapeutic effect on conditions like paralysis, premature ejaculation-type impotence, and it is effective for cortical and spinal impotence caused by nervous weakness (but not for psychogenic impotence). Ginseng can also increase sperm vitality.
Enhances Brain Function and Reduce Fatigue Ginseng can regulate the central nervous system and, as a result, improve neurological weakness. Symptoms like headaches, palpitations, insomnia, forgetfulness, and overall fatigue can be alleviated. Additionally, ginseng can enhance memory, improve work efficiency, and boost physical endurance.
Control Blood Sugar Level Ginseng has a beneficial impact on blood glucose regulation, especially for individuals with diabetes. It is thought to enhance insulin sensitivity and production, improve pancreatic function and enhance the uptake of blood sugar in tissues. Taking ginseng can reduce urinary sugar in mild diabetes patients, which improve and alleviate symptoms such as like thirst, excessive sweating, and fatigue. Furthermore, ginseng extracts provide antioxidant protection, reducing free radicals in the cells of those with diabetes which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Boost Immune System Ginsengs strengthen the immune system by prompting the generation and mobilization of diverse immune cells, including white blood cells and natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in warding off viruses and bacteria. The antioxidants present in ginseng, known as ginsenosides and other bioactive compounds, serve as effective defenders against harmful free radicals. These compounds work to counteract free radicals that have the potential to harm immune cells and compromise the body's defence mechanisms.
Fight Cancer Cells Ginsenosides found in ginseng exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, which could reduce the risk of certain cancers. These compounds hinder the abnormal production and growth of cells, consequently lowering the chances of cancer formation. Additionally, ginseng might serve as a beneficial adjunct to chemotherapy by reduce the treatment-related side effects and enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic medications.
Heart Health Ginseng may contribute positive effects to cardiovascular health which associate the ability to help regulate blood pressure. It helps to promote the relaxation of blood vessels leading to lowering the blood presser that is beneficial for overall heart health. Also, some research suggests that ginseng benefits in cholesterol management by contribute to healthier lipid profile. This includes reducing the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride while increasing the level of HDL (good) cholesterol. Additionally, ginseng is also known to enhance blood circulation, ensuring both oxygen and nutrients are delivered efficiently to the heart and other vital organs.
Replenishing Vital Energy and Nourish Lung For individuals experiencing symptoms such as cold extremities and breathless due to a deficiency in blood and “Qi”, the consumption of ginseng can contribute to a restoration of vital energy, fostering a sense of rejuvenation and improved well-being.

Ginseng boasts a wealth of advantageous nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. This nutrient profile can support and nourish the lungs, is instrumental in fortifying lung health, which may be compromised by factors such as smoking and environmental pollutants. Additionally, ginseng showcases anti-inflammatory properties that aid in mitigating lung inflammation and advancing overall lung well-being.

Changbai Mountain Wild Ginseng can be consumed in a multitude of ways, including stewing, chewing after slicing, powder formulation, tea infusion, alcohol soaking, and incorporation into various culinary dishes.

Note: When taking ginseng, it should not be consumed simultaneously with radishes or tea to avoid reducing its effectiveness. It is contraindicated for those with Yin deficiency, Yang excess, or excessive internal heat.

In conclusion, ginseng transcends its historical roots to emerge as a reservoir of scientifically supported health advantages. Whether one's objectives encompass augmenting sexual performance, elevating energy levels, enhancing cognitive capabilities, fortifying the immune system, mitigating cancer risks, or regulating blood sugar levels, ginseng stands as a versatile remedy. Ginseng holds a distinguished status as a cherished gift from nature, and Changbai Mountain ginseng emerges as a valuable and considerate offering, well-suited for presentation to both friends and family.