Types of Ginseng

There are three main species of ginseng. Oriental ginseng (panax ginseng) is grown in both China and Korea. In Korea it is called red panax. During the processing it turns red. White Oriental ginseng occurs because the root is allowed to dry naturally. Siberian ginseng (eleutherococcus stenticocus) is a distant cousin to panax ginseng. It is also known as the santa root and is native to East Asia, China, Japan, and Russia. American ginseng is a member of the ivy family and grew wild. It takes the root approximately five years to reach harvesting maturity.

Each type of ginseng possesses different qualities and healing properties. We will cover each type and its healing uses as this series continues.

What is Acupuncture.

The intent of acupuncture therapy is to promote health and alleviate pain and suffering. An acupuncturist views health and sickness as concepts of "vital energy," "energetic balance" and "energetic imbalance." The acupuncturist assesses the flow and distribution of this "vital energy" within its pathways, known as "meridians and channels".  The acupuncturist is able to influence health by stimulating key areas along these "meridians" called "acupoints", with fine, slender needles.  The procedure adjusts the "vital energy" so the proper amount of energy reaches the proper place at the proper time. This helps your body heal itself.

Acupuncture is just one form of therapy used within a coherent system of healing known as Oriental Medicine which includes herbology, physical therapy, dietetics and special exercises (such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong).   This is a complete medical system unto itself.  Acupuncture evolved from principles and philosophies unique to Oriental thinking and Oriental Medicine over thousands of years.