The see-what-you-get one
Extract standardized for ginsenosides
Shows how much of the active compounds you're getting. The kind most studies use.
Good for: Energy · Focus & memory
What variations of panax ginseng exist?
A root used for centuries in Chinese and Korean medicine for energy and stamina. Its main active compounds are ginsenosides. Not the same as eleuthero ("Siberian ginseng") or American ginseng. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
Medical Disclaimer
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The see-what-you-get one
Extract standardized for ginsenosides
Shows how much of the active compounds you're getting. The kind most studies use.
Good for: Energy · Focus & memory
The traditional one
Red ginseng (steamed root) extract
Steamed root, a traditional preparation that's well studied, especially in Korea.
Good for: Energy
Usually skip
- The guess (Unstandardized root powder)How much of the active compounds you get varies a lot.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Extract standardized for ginsenosides' on the label (the see-what-you-get one)
Watch out for
- Doesn't say which ginseng it is (Panax ginseng, American ginseng, and eleuthero are different plants)
- Doesn't list ginsenosides (the active compounds)
Check with your provider first if…
- You take warfarin or another blood thinner. Ask your provider first.
- You take diabetes medicine (your blood sugar could drop too low)
- You take antidepressants, especially MAOIs (an older type), or stimulants
- You have high blood pressure, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. It can be stimulating, so take it earlier in the day.
- You have a hormone-sensitive condition. Ask your provider first.
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding: avoid it
In the Lesher Wellness store
2 products in the store have panax ginseng. Here's which form, where the label says.
Medical Disclaimer
Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.
Return Healthy
Adaptogen Immune
Has extract standardized (the see-what-you-get one), good for energy and focus & memory
100 mg per serving
Nature's Way
AM/PM Menopause Formula™
Has extract standardized (the see-what-you-get one), good for energy and focus & memory
100 mg per serving
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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.