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Botanical illustration of Panax ginseng
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Ginseng

인삼 (人蔘) · Panax ginseng C.A.Mey.
Tonic herb Slightly warm Sweet, slightly bitter Spleen, Lung, Heart
NatureSlightly warm
TasteSweet, slightly bitter
MeridiansSpleen, Lung, Heart
Part usedRoot
FamilyAraliaceae
CategoryTonic herb
Find by concern: FatiguePoor appetitePalpitationsAnxietyThirstRecovery after illness

Overview

Ginseng is the most celebrated tonic herb in Korean traditional medicine, often called the king of herbs. In the Donguibogam it is described as a herb that strongly supplements vital energy (qi), calms the mind, and supports the five viscera. It has been cultivated in Korea for centuries and remains central to Korean herbal culture.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑
性微溫, 味甘, 無毒. 主五藏氣不足, 安精神, 定魂魄, 明目, 開心益智.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is slightly warm, its taste sweet, and it is non-toxic. It chiefly treats insufficiency of the five viscera's qi, calms the spirit, settles the ethereal and corporeal souls, brightens the eyes, and opens the heart to benefit wisdom.

Traditional functions

  • Greatly tonifies qi (vital energy)
  • Strengthens the spleen and lung
  • Generates body fluids
  • Calms the mind and spirit
  • Supports recovery after illness

Traditional applications

  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shortness of breath
  • Poor concentration
  • Recovery after illness

Traditional preparation

Decoction 3–10g; powder 1–2g; commonly combined in formulas such as Sipjeondaebo-tang and Samul-tang derivatives.

Cautions

Caution: Traditionally considered unsuitable for people with heat-excess patterns, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or acute fever. May interact with certain medications. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.

Frequently asked questions

What is ginseng used for in Korean medicine?

In the Donguibogam tradition, ginseng is used as a tonic to restore vital energy, support digestion and breathing, and calm the mind, especially in states of fatigue and weakness.

Is Korean ginseng the same as American ginseng?

No. Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) is traditionally classified as slightly warm, while American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is considered cooler in nature; they are used differently.

Is ginseng safe for everyone?

No. Traditional sources advise caution for heat-excess constitutions, high blood pressure, and acute fevers, and modern guidance notes possible drug interactions. Seek professional advice.

Sources

  • 동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
  • 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술, KOGL 유형 확인 예정 (LEGAL-001)
DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.