Ginseng Guide

Ginseng is a name used for several herbal ingredients traditionally associated with energy and performance. Learn how Korean red ginseng and Siberian ginseng differ and what to consider when choosing a supplement.¹,²

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What is ginseng used for?

Depending on the type, ginseng can help reduce fatigue, support cognitive and physical performance, and increase resistance to stress.¹,²

Are Korean and Siberian ginseng the same?

No. Korean red ginseng is Panax ginseng, while Siberian ginseng is Eleutherococcus senticosus, also called eleuthero.¹,²

Can ginseng support mental performance?

Yes. Health Canada recognizes Panax ginseng for helping support cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue.¹

Can ginseng interact with medications?

Yes. Precautions vary by type. Panax ginseng, for example, may interact with antidepressants, blood thinners, or digoxin.¹

What is ginseng?

“Ginseng” can refer to more than one herbal ingredient. Korean red ginseng comes from Panax ginseng, while Siberian ginseng is actually eleuthero, or Eleutherococcus senticosus.¹,² 

Both have long histories of traditional use, but their approved uses and precautions differ, so it’s important to check which type a supplement contains. 

How is ginseng used?

Health Canada recognizes Panax ginseng for supporting cognitive function, reducing mental fatigue, enhancing physical performance, and acting as an adaptogen to help increase energy and resistance to stress over time.¹ 

Eleuthero, commonly called Siberian ginseng, has its own traditional uses related to fatigue, weakness, and recovery after mental or physical exertion.² 

Which health goals can ginseng support?

Energy Support

Ginseng can help reduce fatigue and support energy and physical performance, depending on the type.¹,²

Brain Health

Panax ginseng can help support cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue, particularly during periods of mental stress.¹

Stress Support

Panax ginseng is used as an adaptogen to help increase energy and resistance to stress over time.¹

How can ginseng fit into your routine?

Ginseng is often used during periods when energy, focus, or stamina feel harder to maintain. 

  • Busy days: Panax ginseng may help when mental fatigue or sustained concentration is a concern.¹ 
  • Physical demands: Different types of ginseng have traditionally been used to support stamina and recovery.¹,² 
  • Stressful periods: Panax ginseng is used as an adaptogen to help the body respond to stress over time.¹ 
  • Support the basics: Sleep, regular meals, hydration, and movement still matter for everyday energy. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

What should you look for in a ginseng supplement?

Start with what you need, then choose a product that fits your life.

  • Check the species: Look for Panax ginseng or Eleutherococcus senticosus on the label. 
  • Check the extract: Standardized Panax ginseng products may list their ginsenoside content.¹ 
  • Compare the amount: Extract strengths and equivalent herb amounts vary. 
  • Match the benefit: Korean and Siberian ginseng don’t have identical approved uses. 
  • Read the cautions: Review medication, pregnancy, diabetes, and blood pressure warnings.¹,² 
  • Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN. 
  • Look for quality: Jamieson products are backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine.  

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FAQs
What’s the difference between Korean and Siberian ginseng?

They come from different plants. Korean red ginseng is Panax ginseng, while Siberian ginseng is Eleutherococcus senticosus, or eleuthero. They also have different Health Canada-approved uses and precautions.¹,²

Does ginseng help with fatigue?

Yes. Health Canada recognizes Panax ginseng for reducing mental fatigue and helping increase energy and resistance to stress. Eleuthero also has traditional uses related to fatigue and weakness.¹,²

Can ginseng support brain health?

Panax ginseng is recognized by Health Canada for helping support cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue.¹

Sources

1. Health Canada. Panax Ginseng Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated June 27, 2025.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq?atid=ginseng.panax2 

2. Health Canada. Eleuthero — Eleutherococcus senticosus Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated October 31, 2025.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq?atid=eleuthero2