Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Ginseng

GINSENG, or Panax quinquefolium, L. is an exotic plant growing wild in North America.

The dried root of ginseng, as imported into this country, has a mucilaginous, sweetish taste, similar to that of liquorice, but accompanied with some degree of bitterness, and a slight aromatic warmth, with very little odour. The Chinese ascribe extraordinary virtues to this plant, and consider it as a sovereign remedy in almost every disease to which they are subject. No proofs, however, of its wonderful efficacy have occurred in Europe. Nevertheless, it is often used as a tonic, antispasmodic and stimulant, in doses from 20 to 60 grains, in powder.—Nor do we believe that the celebrated ginseng tea possesses any peculiar properties, excepting those of a nauseous taste and loathing, while the warm water swallowed with it debilitates the stomach.