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.

Native Americans were familiar with this plant, the root of which they dried and ground into a powder. Powdered American ginseng is commonly encapsulated, but it can also be sprinkled directly on foods.