Chinese medicine view of ginseng Exploring processing types, varieties and uses of ren shen 24 JULY 2023, IGOR MICUNOVIC Ginseng is a type of slow-growing perennial plant that belongs to the genus Panax in the family Araliaceae Ginseng (Chin. ren shen, ) is a renowned herb known for its adaptogenic properties. It is considered one of the oldest and most well-known herbs in the world. According to Chinese beliefs, ginseng possesses exceptional abilities to absorb strength from the earth, making it highly valued as an herb for nourishing qi, the vital energy. The earliest written reference to ginseng can be found in the Classic of the Materia Medica (Chin. Shennong Bencao Jing), which was written between 206 BC and 220 AD. Shennong (Chin. ), commonly known as the "Divine Farmer," was a legendary figure in Chinese mythology. He is credited with introducing essential agricultural practices, such as the use of the plow, and teaching humans about medicinal plants. It is in this context that ginseng is mentioned for the first time in traditional texts, indicating its early significance in Chinese culture. Ginseng has been clinically known in China for thousands of years. The herbal root is named ginseng because of its resemblance to the shape of a man. In fact, the term 'ginseng' represents two Chinese ideograms: "ren" ( ) which means "man," and "shen" ( ) which signifies 'essence'. It is believed to encompass the three aspects of man: body, mind, and spirit. Consequently, it is also referred to as the "king of herbs." Ginseng can be classified into three categories based on its growing environment: 1. Ginseng cultivated on a ginseng plantation is typically harvested four to six years after being planted. 2. Ginseng cultivated in the wild, in a natural environment. 3. Wild ginseng is naturally found in the deep mountains. It is the wild-growing form and is considered to be the most potent. However, it has become so scarce that harvesting it has become prohibitively expensive. As a result, it is only used in the most severe cases of Qi deficiency or collapse, if used at all. These roots may have been grown for 10+ years before being harvested. Different processing types of ginseng