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What is Korean Ginseng Tea?

J. Leach
J. Leach

Korean ginseng tea is made from the root of the Panax ginseng plant. The root is also known as Chinese ginseng or reu shen. Ginseng has been used for over 5,000 years as a wonder drug, and is thought to be both a preventative and a cure-all. Science has shown that the root contains steroidal components that may be useful for sexual and hormonal disorders. The tea may also be effective in combating fatigue, sharpening mental acuity, and supporting the immune system.

To make Korean ginseng tea, shaved bits of the root are combined with hot water. The root is left to steep in the water for 10 minutes, and then strained out. The liquid is then ready to drink. Ginseng is often combined with green tea, in tea bags, but it is possible to purchase 100% ginseng tea bags, or as a loose tea in tins.

Ginseng is often combined with green tea in tea bags.
Ginseng is often combined with green tea in tea bags.

The root contains steroidal glycosides which are fat soluble sugar compounds. The most important component of these glycosides, and they are unique to Panax ginseng, are the ginsenosides. Ginsenosides are thought to be responsible for many of the benefits that ginseng can offer as a dietary supplement.

Korean ginseng tea, when consumed on a daily basis, is thought to aid digestion and combat stress. In terms of digestive issues, the tea is said to help alleviate symptoms of Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is also very useful to combat physical and emotional stress, as both can cause immune and digestive system issues.

Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.

By ingesting Korean ginseng tea, patients may be able to improve their immune systems, as well as their resistance to stress. While helping to relieve the effects of stress, the tea can also boost mental acuity and concentration. Many parents with children who suffer from attention deficit disorder (ADHD) have found the tea can help improve a child's focus.

Korean ginseng tea is made by combining shaved portions of the root of the Panax ginseng plant with hot water.
Korean ginseng tea is made by combining shaved portions of the root of the Panax ginseng plant with hot water.

Ginseng is also believed to be an aphrodisiac. It has been proposed that it can improve a man’s libido due to the hormonal qualities of some of its components. Men who suffer from erectile dysfunction may also benefit from drinking the tea daily. Researchers have tested the sperm of men who adhere to a daily dosage of Korean ginseng tea, and have discovered that their sperm counts are higher than those of similar men who did not drink the tea.

The supplement is relatively safe and no negative side effects have been reported. People who have hypertension and women who are pregnant should avoid high doses, and should consult with a medical professional before taking any herbal supplements. When taking Korean ginseng tea, it is a good idea to avoid other stimulants like coffee, tea, and colas, because the combination can cause insomnia. The tea should not be consumed prior to going to sleep for the same reason.

Discussion Comments

burcinc

Korean red ginseng tea is definitely an acquired taste. This actually goes for all types of ginseng tea. Without extra ingredients and added sweetener, it tastes a bit like dirt. I don't want to scare anyone off because I know people who love the taste and there is no doubt that it's beneficial for health. I just haven't become accustomed to the flavor yet. I add lots of honey in my ginseng tea and sometimes ginger or cinnamon to change the flavor.

candyquilt

@SarahGen-- I haven't used red Korean ginseng tea for this purpose, but I'm sure that it can help with allergies. Ginseng strengthens the immune system, so you should not experience as many allergic reactions when you drink ginseng tea regularly.

I drink Korean ginseng tea to combat stress and for extra energy. I have a very demanding and stressful job, so I need all the help I can get. I have Korean ginseng tea mostly in the morning to help me start the day with energy. It has a lot of antioxidants in it, so it not only fights stress, but it also helps prevent fatigue and illness caused by physical and mental overexertion.

SarahGen

Can Korean ginseng tea help with allergies?

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    • Ginseng is often combined with green tea in tea bags.
      By: karandaev
      Ginseng is often combined with green tea in tea bags.
    • Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
      By: Uros Petrovic
      Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
    • Korean ginseng tea is made by combining shaved portions of the root of the Panax ginseng plant with hot water.
      By: thongsee
      Korean ginseng tea is made by combining shaved portions of the root of the Panax ginseng plant with hot water.