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Ginseng is considered to be a treasured trove in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It came to the forefront about 2000 years ago through its use in Chinese medicine. All varieties of ginseng nourish and strengthen the body because they are believed to have the ability to nurture ‘Chi’ or the life force flowing with the body. However different kinds of ginseng produce different effects on the body. In general, red ginseng is considered to be stronger than the white variety and panax ginseng is considered to be better as a general health tonic. 
What is Siberian Ginseng? The Siberian ginseng is also called Elutherococcus senticosus and is named after its natural habitat in Siberia. The Siberian ginseng loves the cool climate and is called Wu Cha Seng in Chinese. Its general habitat includes coniferous mountain forests and foots of cliffs. It is said that the Siberian variety of ginseng is technically not a kind of ginseng at all; but it produces similar physiological effects in the body. Thus it is in reality a pseudo-ginseng. This pungent, bitter-sweet herb is considered to be stronger in action than traditional ginseng. Siberian Ginseng Research A study in the 1960s performed by the Soviets showed that Siberian ginseng has very strong tendencies to fight fatigue, stress and discomfort caused by excessive exertion. In the study, results showed that a group of factory workers who ingested the Siberian ginseng showed more zest for work and recovered rapidly from tiredness. Those involved in noisy and troublesome environments were able to handle stress in a more effective fashion. These studies show that Siberian ginseng is perhaps the best variety to be taken by sports people and others who need to increase their energy and endurance levels. Siberian ginseng is considered to have the ability to increase life endurance and stamina. It enhances work performance and athletic abilities. Benefits of Siberian Ginseng According to some doctors, Siberian ginseng is ideal for people whose saliva-test shows an excess of cortisol, the stress hormone released by the adrenal glands. Usually, the body responds to pain, stress and injury by releasing excessive amounts of cortisol. Ingesting Siberian ginseng helps regulate the amount of cortisol in the body. Thus it is most effective in people dealing with high amounts of stress and tension. Siberian ginseng, as an adaptogen, helps people adapt to life changes easily. It is also considered to minimize the effects of jetlag. The root and root bark of the plant has the properties of an adaptogen. They also have anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic effects on the body. Since it is considered to reduce blood sugar levels, people suffering from low blood sugar must ingest it under strict medical supervision only. Siberian ginseng is used primarily to promote good health rather than to treat ill-health. However, it is used during convalescence from long periods of illness. It is also used in certain cases of ‘feminine illnesses’ like menopausal problems. Since it also helps reduce stress, it is found to be exceptionally useful in women suffering from problems related to menopause. This herb has also been used to fight radiation sickness. It reduces the effects of excessive exposure to toxic chemicals. Siberian Ginseng Cautions Since the Siberian ginseng is considered to be more intense in its effects, it has to be avoided by children. It should also not be used continuously for more than three weeks. To make the best choice of ginseng from its various varieties, a person must consider his own body needs. While the American ginseng is beneficial for people suffering from dryness like dry wrinkled skin or frequent constipation, people who suffer from excessive phlegm would experience an exacerbation of symptoms by using this variety. Asian or Siberian ginseng is considered to be more warming on the body, with the Siberian variety showing more extreme effects.
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