American ginseng

Definition / meaning of American ginseng

The aromatic root of the perennial herb Panax quinquefolius, native to eastern North America. American ginseng, used in Chinese traditional medicine and available as a nutritional supplement, is classified as an adaptogenic herb with multiple effects, many of which are regulatory in nature. It contains a complex mixture of saponin glycosides, also known as ginsenosides or panaxosides. Although the mechanism of action is unclear, this agent is reported to enhance the immune system and reduce fatigue.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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