A survey of the history and applications of American ginseng (西洋参)

American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium L), also known as Xi Yang Shen (西洋参 Radix Panacis Quinquefolii), is indigenous to the United States and Canada. Its discovery in the 1700s paved the way for international trade, which boosted the economy of the New World and helped build commercial ties between the US and China. Due to its therapeutic effects, the demand for American ginseng grew steadily, eventually causing the volume of wild ginseng to dwindle. As a result, laws and regulations were introduced requiring farmers and exporters to engage in harvesting practices that would preserve wild American ginseng. Nowadays, wild American ginseng is considered an endangered and protected species. This article discusses the history, properties, and applications of American ginseng to optimize its use and protection.