CHEMISTRY OF THE RED GINSENG PLANT

Abstract

Ginseng, belongs to the genus Panax as a plant whose roots are used. The term Panax is a name used in plant science and is derived from the Greek.

It is derived from the word ‘panaceae’ and means complete healing. The reason why the name of this plant was chosen as Ginseng is that the root parts resemble the human figure. Red ginseng is obtained from steam-cooked and usually 6-year-old ginseng roots. This special processing process gives the product a unique colour and taste profile. Red ginseng in particular is notable for being rarer than other species and therefore more expensive. Specific to different geographical regions, red ginseng is usually found in three different species growing in China, Korea and America. Chinese red ginseng, Korean red ginseng and American red ginseng are all ginseng species belonging to the Araliaceae family. However, the distinct differences between these three species are based on factors such as climatic conditions, soil characteristics and cultivation methods in the geographical regions where they are grown. Red Ginseng has an important position with its anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, nootropic, hair strengthening, antihyperlipidemic, antiatherosclerosis and immune strengthening effects as well as its use in the treatment of chronic liver disease and erectile dysfunction.