What is the difference between Korean ginseng and American ginseng?

There are many types of ginseng, among which Korean ginseng and American ginseng are both relatively precious Chinese medicinal materials, but there are differences in the medicinal properties of the two. American ginseng can nourish yin and reduce fire, while Korean ginseng can invigorate qi and help fire. So what are the specific differences?

Korean ginseng is divided into white ginseng and red ginseng. White ginseng is suitable for those with spleen deficiency and excessive fire, because "it has a cool nature when raw, and is slightly bitter to nourish yin"; red ginseng is suitable for those with spleen deficiency and weak lungs, because "it has a warm nature when cooked, and is sweet to nourish yang". In general, Korean ginseng tea is more suitable for elderly people with obvious symptoms of qi deficiency, as it can strengthen the body and enhance immunity. But if you have a cold or sore throat, drinking ginseng tea will be too hot.

In comparison, American ginseng tastes bitter, slightly sweet, cool in nature, and is not easy to cause internal heat. It is mainly used to treat long-term cough due to lung deficiency, or symptoms such as hemoptysis, dry throat and thirst, false heat and fatigue, physical weakness in the elderly, and lack of energy. People with yin deficiency and hyperactivity of fire, who are prone to coughs, often drink American ginseng tea to replenish qi and yin, promote salivation and quench thirst.

When drinking American ginseng tea, you can take American ginseng slices, use 3 to 6 grams each time, put them in a thermos cup, brew with boiling water, let it simmer for 15 minutes, and drink it frequently instead of tea. Drink it within 1 day and swallow the ginseng residue at the end.