Can red ginseng be steeped in water for consumption?
Apr 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, red ginseng can be steeped in water for consumption. Red ginseng is the dried root and rhizome of ginseng that has been steamed. It has a sweet and slightly bitter taste, with a mildly warm nature. It functions to greatly replenish vital energy, invigorate qi to control bleeding, restore the pulse, and prevent collapse. It is suitable for patients experiencing cold limbs, weak pulse, physical weakness approaching collapse, or hemorrhagic disorders such as menorrhagia. Drinking an appropriate amount of red ginseng water can provide effective nourishment and support.
Generally, red ginseng can be consumed as a steeped water infusion, but it is not suitable for everyone, and excessive consumption should be avoided. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Red ginseng is the dried root and rhizome of ginseng that has undergone steaming. It has a sweet and slightly bitter taste, is mildly warm in nature, and possesses functions including greatly replenishing vital energy, invigorating qi to control bleeding, restoring pulse, and preventing collapse due to qi deficiency. It is suitable for patients suffering from cold limbs, weak pulse, physical weakness on the verge of collapse, or hemorrhagic metrorrhagia. Drinking an appropriate amount of red ginseng water can provide good health benefits. Additionally, during cold seasons, moderate consumption of red ginseng water can help warm the body and dispel cold.
However, individuals with a naturally hot constitution, those prone to internal heat, people suffering from hypertension or insomnia, and pregnant women should consume red ginseng cautiously. It is recommended to consume appropriate amounts under the guidance of a doctor or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Furthermore, as red ginseng is warming in nature, excessive consumption may lead to internal heat accumulation, causing symptoms such as mouth ulcers and constipation. Therefore, it is recommended to drink red ginseng water in moderation on a daily basis.
Once prepared, red ginseng water should not be stored for a long time and should be consumed promptly to prevent loss of nutritional components. In daily life, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular sleep patterns and a balanced diet, also contributes to maintaining good health.
