Panax quinquefolius is a species of ginseng often referred to as
American ginseng because the herb is native to eastern and mid-western
North America. The thick roots were once heavily harvested as a
substitute for Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) when supplies of the latter
became scarce due to high demand. Unfortunately, over-harvesting caused
American ginseng to become endangered and, in some native regions,
extinct. If you see this plant in the wild, do not dig it up!
In contrast to Asian ginseng, American ginseng is attributed with
possessing yin properties, making the herb suited to warm natured
individuals.
