Ginseng: The Root of the Warrior
We’ve all heard of Ginseng. Although, you might be surprised that its history dates way further back than you might think. Let’s dive into a little history of this amazing root as well as some of the benefits that you can expect to receive from consuming it.
History of Ginseng
The word ginseng comes from the Chinese term “rénshen”, which quite literally translates into “man root”. It is thought to have been given this name because the root of the plant looks like the legs of a man.
Humble Beginnings in China
Over five thousand years ago, in the mountains of Manchuria, China, Panax ginseng was commonly used for its rejuvenating powers.
The herb was considered to be a symbol of divine harmony and its human shape was highly desirable.
The benefits of ginseng were first documented during China’s Liang Dynasty (220 to 589 AD).
Chinese legend has it that early emperors used to use it as a remedy for all illnesses and not only consumed it, but also used it in soaps, lotions and creams.
In the third century A.C., China’s demand for ginseng sparked huge international trade of the herb from other parts of the world — in exchange for silk and other goods.
North America
In 1716, a Jesuit priest in Canada heard that ginseng was extremely sought-after in China, so he searched for the herb in areas of French Canada — environmentally similar to Manchuria.
After three months of searching he finally found a herb nearly identical to Asian ginseng near the city of Montreal — the herb he found became known as American ginseng.
Soon after the discovery of American ginseng, botanists and herbalists found that it was common all over the deciduous forests of the eastern United States. The export of ginseng from North America to China began to explode.
However, the herb was over-harvested in the mid-1970s and soon became considered an endangered species.
Since farmers began cultivating the sensitive herb in the 1970s, American ginseng trade has been growing steadily.
Currently, the state of Wisconsin, in particular, Marathon County, produces nearly 95% of American ginseng. The herb is also widely grown in the province of Ontario, Canada.
Health Benefits of Ginseng
Provides Energy and Prevents Fatigue
Ginseng stimulated physical and mental activity among people who are weak and tired. This is especially of use with people who lead a very active lifestyle. Ginseng can greatly improve your energy during your dreaded leg day.
Improved Cognitive Function
Several studies have come out indicating that Ginseng does, in fact, improve your thinking ability as well as cognition. This can be of great use when you need to be laser focused at work or even in the gym!
Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Ginseng has seven constituent, ginsenosides, which have immune-suppressive effects, according to results of experiments published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
Allan Lau, who led the study, said that “the anti-inflammatory role of ginseng may be due to the combined effects of these ginsenosides, targeting different levels of immunological activity, and so contributing to the diverse actions of ginseng in humans”.
These properties can be especially helpful after a strenuous workout.
Ginseng is one of the main ingredients in our USDA Certified Organic Pre-Workout.
Our Pre-Workout is formulated to increase energy, focus, circulation, pump, and stamina while also nourishing the body with important nutrients and antioxidants, thus promoting overall health and vitality. Our organic ingredients are absorbed and processed easily by the body and will never leave you feeling cracked out and sleepless like many other pre-workouts.
