Tiếng Việt
Ngoc Linh Ginseng – Vietnam’s “Quoc Bao” – Health elixir
Not Korean ginseng, Ngoc Linh ginseng is the rarest, most nutritious and expensive ginseng. Considered the top herb in the list of precious herbs in Eastern medicine, Ngoc Linh ginseng is increasingly popular and is also known as “Vietnam’s national treasure”.
This is a kind of “root” that is praised by scientists and research institutes “Tam Tac” for bringing great values to health. Let’s find out in more detail about the origin, origin as well as uses, usage and notes when choosing to buy this ginseng flavor!
What is Ngoc Linh Ginseng?
The origin
Ngoc Linh ginseng has the scientific name of Panax vietnamensis, belongs to the Crazy family. This is the 20th type of ginseng found in the world.
This rare kind of “root” was discovered in the Central Central region of our country, growing mainly in mountainous districts in the west of Ngoc Linh mountain, Dak To district and Tu Mo Rong district, Kon Tum province, district. Nam Tra My, Quang Nam province.
According to the latest investigation results, Ngoc Linh ginseng is also distributed at Ngoc Lum Heo mountain in Phuoc Loc commune, Phuoc Son district and possibly at Ngoc Am peak, Quang Nam province. Up to now, in Vietnam, there are only two provinces with Ngoc Linh ginseng: Kon Tum and Quang Nam.
Before being discovered and put into research by scientists, Ngoc Linh ginseng was used by ethnic minorities as a traditional remedy to cure diseases and promote health, especially the Xe ethnic group. Post. During the years of revolutionary activities, cadres and soldiers were given only 1 precious medicine by the village elders and people in this area to use when sick, treat malaria, stop bleeding, heal wounds,…
Later, due to the needs of the resistance war, the pharmaceutical industry in the Central Central region decided to find this precious medicinal herb. In 1973, a delegation of central health officials led by pharmacist Dao Kim Long found Panax ginseng in the Central region. Because it originates from Ngoc Linh mountain, the name Ngoc Linh ginseng probably also comes from here.
In 1978, researchers discovered and discovered that on Ngoc Linh mountain, there were about 6,000 – 7,000 ginseng plants growing densely in an area tens of kilometers long, with a density from 1 square meter per tree to 7-8 square meters. a tree.
Ngoc Linh Ginseng is known as “Vietnam’s National Treasure” and is a “panacea” for curing all diseases. Growing and developing in a specific geographical area, at an altitude of nearly 2,000m, absorbing the quintessence and pure vitality of heaven and earth, Ngoc Linh ginseng is full of precious nutrients, with high levels of Saponin. high.
Saponin content is the determining factor in the quality of Ngoc Linh ginseng in particular and other ginsengs in the world in general. This ginseng is especially rare and can be said to be the best in the world today.
Analysis and research results of the Ministry of Health of Vietnam since 1978 show that the rhizome of Ngoc Linh ginseng contains up to 50 saponin compounds. In which, 26 Saponin compounds with known chemical structures and 24 Saponins with new structures have not been found in any ginseng.
In addition, studies also prove that the saponin content of Vietnamese ginseng is many times higher than that of other ginsengs in the world. Specifically: 3 times higher than Korean ginseng (25 Saponin – 3.5%); 2 times that of American ginseng (14 Saponin – 4.0% content) and Chinese ginseng (23 Saponin – 4.5 % content).
In the research results, the recently published chemical isolation of Ngoc Linh ginseng has added the list of Saponins to a total of 52 types. Thus, Vietnamese ginseng is one of the ginsengs with the highest saponin content.
With abundant content and diversity of Saponin compounds, Vietnamese ginseng is increasingly widely used for the purpose of bringing great value to human health. Ngoc Linh Ginseng is especially effective in destroying foreign cells, regenerating healthy cells, limiting tumor growth, preventing pathogens and promoting health.
Thanks to that, Ngoc Linh ginseng is comparable to other precious ginsengs and is known as the most precious ginseng in the world.
Characteristics
Ngoc Linh Ginseng grows naturally at an altitude of 1,200m and above (there are some documents about 1500m), reaching the highest density at about 1,700 – 2,000m, thickly growing into the canopy of old forests, along the trees. The stream is moist, with a lot of humus. The ecological feature of Ngoc Linh ginseng is that it only grows on decaying carpets, not underground.
Therefore, ginseng often grows at the foot of Ngoc Linh mountain at an altitude of 2,578m with a layer of red-yellow soil on granite over 50cm thick, with high humus, porous and wide primary forest. Under the canopy of primeval forests, thick decaying carpets are places with ideal conditions for moisture and soil for ginseng to grow and develop. This species of ginseng grows slowly and has a very long life span, which can live over 100 years.
This is a herb 80-100cm tall, at first glance looks quite similar to Korean ginseng. The rhizome of Ngoc Linh ginseng grows horizontally with a diameter of 1-2cm, lying on the surface or below the ground about 1-3cm, usually bearing roots and tubers. The rhizome has bamboo-like nodes (so it is also called bamboo ginseng), many fleshy pulps and many scars.
The qi body of Ngoc Linh ginseng is upright, green or purple in color. The trunk is small, 4 – 8mm in diameter and usually withers every year. However, there are still some cases where the stem can survive for several years.
The leaf-bearing stems and corresponding to a leaf-bearing stem are a segment about 0.5 – 0.7cm long. In the first to the third year, ginseng has only one leaf and does not fall. From the 4th year onwards, there will be 2-3 more cards. The leaves at the top of the stem are compound, the leaves are circular with 3 – 5 leaf branches and are propeller-shaped. The petiole is compound 6 – 12mm long, has 5-7 leaflets, the leaf blade is oval, the tip is pointed, the margin is serrated and hairy on both sides.
4 – 5 year old ginseng plants will have flowers growing under the straight leaves with a single canopy. The peduncle of the flower canopy is usually 10-20cm long, there may be 1 – 4 additional canopies or an individual flower below the main canopy. Each canopy has another 60-100 flowers. The flower stalk has a length of 1 – 1.5cm, 5 sepals, 5 pale yellow petals, 5 stamens, one cell and 1 pistil.
Ginseng fruit is small, 0.8 – 1cm long and about 0.5 – 0.6cm wide, concentrated in the center of the foliage. Initially the fruit is green, after 2 months, it will gradually turn dark green or yellow-green and when ripe it turns red-orange, at the top of the fruit there will be a black dot. Each fruit contains 1-2 seeds, an average tree usually has 10-30 fruits.
The stems and roots are the main parts used medicinally because they contain very high amounts of saponins. In addition, the leaves and roots can also be used. In order for ginseng to bring the most nutrients and benefits, it is necessary to choose ginseng from 7 to 8 years old. The rhizome of ginseng with more than 10 scars is estimated to be over 8 years old.
People often rely on the scar on the rhizome to calculate the age of ginseng. After 3 years of age, ginseng will have 1 scar on the rhizome because in the first 3 years, ginseng will only lose one leaf. At this time, ginseng can be exploited, but it is recommended that ginseng be over 5 years old to exploit. Besides, the best season to harvest the rhizome of ginseng is in winter.
Ingredients and nutritional value of Ngoc Linh ginseng
From 1973 up to now, there have been nearly 50 research projects of domestic and foreign agencies and scientists on Ngoc Linh ginseng, which have been successfully defended with doctoral and doctoral theses. Research documents in 1974 – 1975 of the Institute of Medicinal Materials of the Ministry of Health showed that the saponin triterpene found in the three ventricles, ginseng and Ngoc Linh ginseng contained 9 or 11 substances with equal Rf, the same color in the two solution systems. different lips.
Also according to research results, Ngoc Linh ginseng contains mainly Saponins triterpenes. Compared with other species of the genus Panax, this is also one of the ginseng plants with the highest content of pammaran saponins (about 12 – 15%) and the highest amount of saponins.
In addition to the abundant saponin content, researchers also determined that in Vietnamese ginseng, there are 14 fatty acids, 16 amino acids (including 8 irreplaceable amino acids) and 18 macro- and trace elements. .
The latest research results show that: Chemically, the rhizome and root of Ngoc Linh ginseng have isolated 52 Saponins, of which 26 Saponin compounds are commonly found in Korean ginseng, American ginseng, and Japanese ginseng. The leaves and stems of Ngoc Linh ginseng contain 19 dammaran saponins, of which there are 8 saponins with new structures.
It was determined that ginseng contains 17 kinds of amino acids, 20 trace minerals, essential oil content is 0.1%. (According to Dr. Nguyen Ba Hoat – Deputy Director of the Vietnam Institute of Medicinal Materials).
The effect of Ngoc Linh ginseng on health
Before being put into research and testing, Ngoc Linh ginseng was used by ethnic minorities in Xe Dang as a precious medicine to treat accidental wounds, insect bites, hemostasis, and fever. cold, stomachache and tonic,…
Today, through the process of experimental pharmacological research, Ngoc Linh ginseng has proven to have many miraculous uses in supporting the treatment of diseases, improving and enhancing health status. Detail:
Strengthen resistance
Saponin compounds in Ngoc Linh ginseng have the ability to help the body fight against many different viruses and bacteria, strengthen the immune system, resistance, support anti-inflammatory, antibacterial. At the same time, using ginseng daily also increases the body’s ability to adapt to erratic changes in the environment and weather, and fights respiratory diseases caused by common viruses such as colds and flu. cold,…
Longevity
Containing many valuable medicinal ingredients that no other ginseng can have, Ngoc Linh ginseng is used as a kind of “panacea” to help prolong life. Ginseng has the effect of supplementing good nutrients to care and improve health and protect cells. Moreover, it also helps to limit the growth of tumors, improve pathological problems for the body, and prevent pathogens. This can prolong the life of the user.
Reduce the risk of cancer
Saponin components present in Vietnamese ginseng act by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, helping to inhibit the spread of tumors, cancer cells, and prevent cell mutations. Besides, it helps the patient to strengthen the immune system and regulate the proliferation of cells in the body. Therefore, this hidden medicinal plant is considered a “panacea” for people with cancer.
Anti-stress, depression
Saponin dammaran compound in the form of Ocotillol with Majonoside – R2 (MR2), accounting for more than 50% of the content of Ngoc Linh ginseng, is effective in restoring functional disorders caused by stress. These active ingredients act on the GABAA system of the central nervous system, thereby helping to effectively regulate psychological disorders caused by stress.
At the same time relieve stress, fight depression, improve neurasthenia and improve nervous system focus. Vietnamese ginseng is effective against both physical and psychological stress and depression. While Korean ginseng does not have this ability.
Protect liver cells
One of the great uses of this ginseng plant is to help detoxify the liver, inhibit the activation of toxic substances to the liver, prevent hepatitis, cirrhosis and protect the liver from harmful agents. Moreover, this medicinal herb also helps to restore damaged liver cells, promoting the absorption capacity of liver cells.
Anti-oxidant, prevent premature aging
Many in-depth studies have proven that Saponin in Ngoc Linh ginseng helps the body neutralize free radicals, inhibiting the formation of MDA (product of biological membrane lipid oxidation). Thereby providing excellent antioxidant effects, preventing premature aging.
In addition, Ngoc Linh ginseng also provides abundant nutrients, a variety of trace elements and minerals necessary for the body. Clinical pharmacological studies also prove the good effectiveness of Ngoc Linh ginseng such as:
- Promote blood circulation, increase the quality and quantity of red blood cells and white blood cells in the blood.
- Support to regulate cardiovascular activity, improve low blood pressure.
- Enhance physical condition, vitality, reduce symptoms of body weakness.
- Improve resistance, reduce pain, anti-inflammatory.
- Helps stimulate appetite, deep sleep, more relaxed spirit.
- Regulates hormones, enhances physiological functions.
- Works well with antibiotics and diabetes drugs.
How to use and preserve Ngoc Linh ginseng
Bringing in many rare and precious nutrients that no other ginseng in the world has, Ngoc Linh ginseng is increasingly used by more and more people as a valuable medicine to support the treatment of diseases and nourish the body. Not only the roots, but also the stems and leaves of ginseng are utilized.
You can use Ngoc Linh ginseng by drying or fresh, taking it directly in your mouth, soaking it with wine or honey, making tea to drink. Or can also combine ginseng with food ingredients and many other herbs to form delicious and nutritious dishes and drinks, contributing to increased effectiveness.
For fresh Ngoc Linh ginseng after buying, you should clean all the dirt and sand on the tubers by dipping in water and then brushing it with a brush. Then, use a soft cloth to wipe and dry the ginseng root. Do not wash ginseng under running water because it will lose the nutrients of ginseng.
Fresh ginseng usually does not last long in the natural environment. Therefore, to best preserve ginseng, you should store it in the refrigerator or soak it with wine or honey.
Dried Ngoc Linh ginseng will last for a long time and is easier to store because it has been dried. You just need to put ginseng in a silver bag, a plastic bag or a vacuum bag. Then put ginseng in a cool, dry place or wrap several layers of foil and put it in the refrigerator. Ginseng should not be stored in humid places, exposed to direct sunlight because this will make ginseng moldy and reduce quality.
Here are a few popular recipes for Ngoc Linh ginseng:
Melt Ngoc Linh ginseng in your mouth
This is the most basic and simplest way to use Ngoc Linh ginseng. You just need to cut 1 slice of ginseng and put it directly in your mouth until it dissolves. Both fresh and dried Ngoc Linh ginseng can be eaten directly. This method is suitable for people who are ill for a long time, anorexia, fatigue, poor respiratory function, …
Soak Ngoc Linh ginseng wine
Ngoc Linh ginseng wine is used to protect the liver and kidneys, improve health, help blood circulation, improve physical strength and resistance. Ginseng has a light, sweet taste that is easy to drink, especially suitable for men.
Doing:
Rinse the ginseng and let it dry completely.
Put ginseng in a clean glass jar soaked with alcohol at the rate of 100g soaked ginseng with 2-3 liters of alcohol. Then close the lid.
Should choose a traditional cooking wine from 50 – 70 degrees.
Bring the wine to brew in a closed, dry, clean place.
After 3 – 6 months, the wine will gradually darken and settle at the bottom of the bottle.
Wine soaked for 3 months or more can be used. However, the longer the wine is aged, about 1 year or more, the better it will be to drink.
You can drink from 50-100ml of ginseng wine per day.
Ngoc Linh Ginseng soaked with honey
Wild honey is known to be a material that contains many nutrients, is rich in antioxidants, has good effects on health and beauty. Combining wild honey with Ngoc Linh ginseng is the most common way to use it, bringing the most optimal effect, suitable for many users from children to adults.
Doing:
Ngoc Linh ginseng after being washed, drained and cut into slices 1 – 1.5mm thick.
Let the ginseng dry for a bit and then put it in a clean glass jar.
Pour in wild honey and soak until the ginseng is completely submerged.
Close the lid tightly and keep in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.
During the soaking process, you will see foam on the surface, so pay attention to remove the foam so that the ginseng does not become sour or moldy.
Soak for about 1 month can be used.
Every day suck 1-2 slices of honey ginseng or you can mix 1 teaspoon with warm water to drink every morning.
Make Ngoc Linh ginseng tea
Using Ngoc Linh ginseng tea as a refreshing drink will bring many great benefits to health. Ngoc Linh ginseng tea has the effect of helping the spirit to relax, reduce stress, fatigue at work and study, stimulate nerves, and enhance memory.
At the same time, it helps to strengthen the immune system, help regulate blood pressure and lower blood cholesterol to prevent cardiovascular disease. In particular, Ngoc Linh ginseng tea is also an anti-aging “panacea”, keeping the skin smooth and ruddy.
Making:
- Wash ginseng, drain and cut into slices.
- Put 3-5 slices of ginseng in the teapot.
- Pour in some boiling water to rinse the kettle and then discard the water.
- Continue to add boiling water, close the lid to brew the tea for about 5 minutes to be able to use.
- You can add more water to the tea to use it many times until the taste of the tea fades away.
- The tea residue can be sucked and eaten as usual.
Notes when choosing to buy Ngoc Linh ginseng to avoid fakes
Not only bringing many medical values, Ngoc Linh ginseng also brings many economic benefits. Besides, consumption demand is also increasing. Therefore, on the market appear more and more fake Ngoc Linh ginseng, of unknown origin, widely sold in order to gain illicit profits, causing much harm to consumers.
There are about 3 types of fake Ngoc Linh ginseng have been discovered:
- Type 1: A temporary ginseng named 1A ginseng, from the same genus Panax, has the same DNA as Ngoc Linh ginseng 97%. This ginseng grows in the border area between Vietnam and China.
- Type 2: Wild tamarind tuber has a shape quite similar to Ngoc Linh ginseng. The tubers have the same genus of ginseng, but the nutritional value is much lower than Ngoc Linh ginseng.
- Type 3: Ngoc Linh Ginseng faked from the roots. This tuber has a shape similar to that of a taro plant, and is common in mountainous areas where the climate is hot and humid. The roots are long, many are short and have a shape similar to Ngoc Linh ginseng, so they are used for counterfeiting.
So, to avoid buying the wrong product, “losing money”, you can refer to a few notes after choosing to buy Ngoc Linh ginseng.
For naturally growing ginseng:
- There are many eyes, the eyes are concave in the stem, staggered and few roots.
- The inner tuber is light yellow, the body is slightly purple or light gray, the color is uneven.
- The ridges on the slice are even, small fibers.
- Ginseng has a characteristic strong aroma, when tasted, it has a bitter taste, but later on, it will have a sweet and gentle taste in the neck.
- Ginseng meat is crispy and firm, not much water.
- The shell is very thin and smooth, if washed, it will be yellow-brown or gray-green.
For naturally grown ginseng:
- Compared with naturally grown ginseng, cultivated ginseng has a fairly uniform size and shape.
- The upper body is dark green, moss green. The lower body is yellow like a potato.
- Around the stem there are scars and lumps due to swollen roots containing nutrients to nourish the plant.
- Lush roots, less eyes than natural ginseng.
- Cultivated ginseng is not crunchy, slightly soft and gives off a lot of water. The taste of ginseng will be bitter at first and sweet later.
Ngoc Linh Ginseng is one of the extremely rare herbs in the world. There is no denying the useful uses of ginseng for human health. However, between the real and fake market today, you need to know how to distinguish the real from the fake to avoid health hazards. Besides, you should also look to reputable and quality sellers for advice and choose to buy the best ginseng.
Hopefully, the above article will provide you with useful information about Ngoc Linh ginseng.