Many Native American tribes used American ginseng. Medicinal uses ranged from digestive disorders to sexual problems. The Chinese began to use American ginseng after it was imported during the 1700s. The traditional applications in China are significantly different from those for Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). American ginseng is considered superior for gastrointestinal problems.

American ginseng contains ginsenosides, which stimulate the immune system and fight fatigue and stress by supporting the adrenal glands and the use of oxygen by exercising muscles. The type and ratio of ginsenosides are somewhat different in American and Asian ginseng.

Pharmacologically, ginseng is nonspecific in its effects and is capable of a normalizing action irrespective of the pathological situation. Ginseng's effects include improved mental performance, learning, and memory and sensory awareness. The basis of ginseng's action is believed to be due to its tendency to increase the brain's adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) activity without involving the adrenal glands. A generalized mental arousal is thereby effected.

Grieve's classic 'A Modern Herbal': 'In China, both varieties are used particularly for dyspepsia, vomiting and nervous disorders. A decoction of ½ oz. of the root, boiled in tea or soup and taken every morning, is commonly held a remedy for consumption and other diseases.

In Western medicine, it is considered a mild stomachic tonic and stimulant, useful in loss of appetite and in digestive affections that arise from mental and nervous exhaustion.'

This is Plum Flower brand's nitrogen-flushed vacuum pack. Plum Flower is one of the most distinguished herb houses in the world.

Sulfur Free, Chlorine Free, Aluminum Phosphate Free.

Sulfites are used to give herbs the appearance of freshness. As with dried fruit, unsulfured herbs look different than those that are adulterated with preservatives. Herbs that are preservative free are more natural looking and are generally darker. The brightness of the herbs may be appealing, but it indicates the presence of harmful additives. Despite their appearance, unsulfured herbs are more fresh and safer than regular commercially available products.

The use of sulfur, chlorine and aluminum phosphate was made unnecessary through the establishment of Plum Flower processing stations in China. Herb harvesters slice and process the herbs fresh, avoiding the need to rehydrate dried herbs later to process. This first step is crucial, as rehydration leads to decomposition and thus the need for preservatives.

The herbs are then packed and the packages vacuum-packed, injected with nitrogen, and sealed. The nitrogen process combined with the lack of sulfur treatment inhibits the growth of anaerobic organisms, resulting in safer, higher quality herbs. After opening, store in a cool dry place.

Plum Flower's Lanzhou and Guang Zhou factories are so clean, they are certified by the Australian Government’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (GMP). These standards surpass any of the FDA, and are considered the highest for any government agency in the world.