Korean ginseng tea is a traditional herbal drink that has been consumed since ancient days for its health benefits. One sip of warm ginseng tea can lengthen your lifespan for it is the best nutritious drinks. This tea is best enjoyed with your loved ones for a relaxing time together.
What is Korean Ginseng Tea
Korea ginseng tea actually does not contain any tea leaves even though its referred to as a “tea’ beverage. It is a herbal drink that is mainly made of ginseng roots. The ginseng roots are usually ground to fine powder to produce herbal tea. The bitter taste of ginseng tea is usually sweetened by adding honey or milk. With honey to sweeten the ginseng tea, now ginseng tea is both delicious and rich in nutrients.
History of Ginseng
Ginseng usage was first mentioned in 196 AD, in a Chinese text called Pharmacopoeia describing the usage of ginseng as medicinal herbs. In 1956, a medical practitioner, Li Shizhen stated that ginseng is a superior tonic that can ward off many chronic diseases.
Korean ginseng tea is typically prepared with jujubes, dried Korean chestnuts and sweetened with honey for several hours on low heat. Since ancient times, ginseng has been widely used as traditional medicine. This superior tonic is available in dried form of the ginseng roots itself and the dry powdered form.
The word “ginseng” actually derived from the Hokkien dialect which is jin-sim which means person in modern standard pronunciation. The plant got its name due to the resemblance of its roots to a human body. Fresh roots of ginseng can be processed into red ginseng by steaming or drying the roots. Besides, white ginseng is produced by air-drying the roots.
The ginseng plant belongs to the genus Panax. The Panax genus has P. ginseng which is a Korean ginseng, P. notoginseng in South China and P. quinquefolius in America. These ginseng plants is characterized by the existence if ginsenoside and ginton in the plant. During the China war in 475 BC, ginseng tea was widely consumed for its health benefits and symbolised high status in the hierarchy.
During the Goryeo dynasty in Korea, a written text mentioned that consuming ginseng tea helps to strengthen the body and reduce stress. The popularity of the ginseng arrived at the Western world in 1274, where Marco Polo consumed ginseng tea in several forms like syrups and powders. Ginseng is still used in some Chinese and Korean cuisine to boost the energy and vitality of consumers.
Health Benefits of Korean Ginseng Tea
In Traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng is used primarily to treat fatigue and stress. Ginseng reduces oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant’s enzyme activities. The ginsenosides and compound K in the ginseng tea can protect the brain from free radical damages. It is also believed to aid in treating Alzheimer’s disease and to calm the mind.
Where to Find Korean Ginseng Tea in Malaysia
One of the places that you can find Korean ginseng tea is Oiso restaurant. This restaurant offers Korean ginseng tea apart from other teas. The herbal drink is best enjoyed after a hearty Korean meal or even on its own during tea time.
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