Ginseng, also known as ginnsuu in some regions of asia, mainly china, is any one of eleven distinct species of slow-growing perennial plants with fleshy roots, belonging to the panax genus in the family araliaceae. It grows in the northern hemisphere in eastern asia (mostly northern china, korea, and eastern siberia), typically in cooler climates.
Ginseng is promoted as an adaptogen (a product that increases the body's resistance to stress), one which can to a certain extent be supported with reference to its anticarcinogenic and antioxidant properties.
A comparative, randomized and double-blind study at the national autonomous university of mexico indicates it may be "a promising dietary supplement" when assessed for an increase in quality of life.