Geumsanmall Korean Red Ginseng Root Slices Preserved with fructose, Saponin, Panax, 200 gram (10ea X 20g)

Panax ginseng is available in many forms, several of which are shown at left. Counterclockwise, from the center: whole red ginseng root, with its human like shape; sliced red ginseng; ginseng tablets containing spirulina, a type of algae; a ginseng jar used to cook and soften the whole or sliced root; and small pieces of red ginseng root.

Ginseng is actually a broad term that incorporates nearly a dozen different species of plants that fall within the Panax genus. This highly valued plant, which has large fleshy roots (their main source of nutrients), is typically found in North America and certain cooler climates in some parts of Asia. However, due to the global demand for this beneficial plant, it has been exported throughout the world. There are a number of different types of genus, as mentioned, some of which have woody roots, while others are fleshy. The root is the most medicinally valuable element of the plant, and can be purchased in dried, whole, or sliced form. The leaves of the ginseng are used on a far more limited basis, but they do have some uses. Many distributors claim false plants as being part of the ginseng family, so always be sure to know exactly from which plants your ginseng supplements are derived.