Comparisons
Korean Ginseng or Siberian Ginseng?
Although both are called "ginseng", Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) belong to different genera. The table is built from their EMA cards.
| Aspect | Korean GinsengPanax ginseng | EleutheroEleutherococcus senticosus |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | T Traditional use | T Traditional use |
| Needs | Energy & Focus | Energy & Focus |
| Form | Dried Herb & Tea | Dried Herb & Tea |
| How to use | Simmer 1–2 g of chopped white ginseng root in 150 ml of water. | Infuse 0.5–4 g of chopped root a day in 150 ml of boiling water, split into 1–3 doses. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Avoid |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 18 | From age 12 |
| Drug interactions | No recorded interactions | No recorded interactions |
| Duration limit | Max 3 months; see a doctor if no better after 2 weeks | Max 2 months; see a doctor if no better after 2 weeks |
Which one, when?
Korean Ginseng
Traditionally used for symptoms of fatigue and weakness; used for up to 3 months under the EMA monograph.
Full card →Eleuthero
Traditionally used for symptoms of asthenia such as fatigue and weakness; used for up to 2 months under the EMA monograph.
Full card →Good to know
- Siberian ginseng must not be used by people with high blood pressure (arterial hypertension).
- Neither herb is recommended under 18, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.