American ginseng is a perennial herb with white flowers and red berries that grows in eastern North American forests. Like Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), American ginseng is recognized for the odd “human” shape of its roots. Its Chinese name “Jin-chen” (where “ginseng” comes from) and Native American name “garantoquen” translate to “man root.” Both Native Americans and early Asian cultures used ginseng root in various ways to support health and promote longevity.

People take American ginseng by mouth for stress, to boost the immune system, and as a stimulant. American ginseng is also used for infections of the airways such as colds and flu, for diabetes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support any of these uses.

You may also see American ginseng listed as an ingredient in some soft drinks. Oils and extracts made from American ginseng are used in soaps and cosmetics.

Don’t confuse American ginseng with Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) or Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus). They have different effects.