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What are the Different Types of Ginseng Tea?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

The different types of ginseng tea include versions made with different ginseng varietals, tea blends, and teas intended to treat specific conditions. Health food stores and some supermarkets may carry ginseng tea, usually offering several options for their customers, and people can also order it directly through catalogs and other suppliers. People who live in regions where ginseng grows can also harvest their own and make tea blends at home for their own use.

One way to divide different types of ginseng tea is by what kind of ginseng is used. American, wild, Asian, and red ginseng are all different varietals believed to have different properties. Some teas contain a blend of varietals for balance, while others may only feature one ingredient. Roots, stems, and leaves can all be used. Plain ginseng tea is usually designed to be steeped for around five minutes before use but some companies make instant teas and tea mixes with ginseng for people who are on the go.

Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands or years.
Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands or years.

Other types of ginseng tea can be classified by the additional ingredients used. Some companies make a variety of herbal tea products intended to treat specific ingredients and they may sell ginseng blended with other ingredients to do everything from settling stomachs to helping people feel more energized. Ginseng may also be added to black teas for more energy or included in a generic tea blend intended to promote immune function and general health.

Roots, stems, and leaves can all be used to make ginseng tea.
Roots, stems, and leaves can all be used to make ginseng tea.

Ginseng teas can also be classified by how they are sold and packaged. Teas are available in looseleaf, bag, and instant crystal formats. Some companies sell teas that are already brewed and intended to be consumed cold, and ginseng can also be added to packaged energy drinks. The packaging format can be an important consideration when purchasing ginseng tea, as each method is intended to be used and consumed differently. Some tea stores also allow people to develop custom ingredient blends using bulk ingredients that they blend by hand, and this can be an option for ginseng tea as well.

Red ginseng tea is typically more expensive than other types of tea.
Red ginseng tea is typically more expensive than other types of tea.

Before using ginseng tea, people should be aware that this herb can interact with some medications that may be prescribed by a doctor. It is advisable to ask a doctor or pharmacist about any potential interactions with herbal teas and supplements to reduce the risk of a harmful drug interaction. Ginseng contains a number of potent compounds, some of which have not been fully studied, and people should take note of any signs of a strange drug interaction while on ginseng and other medications so that the interaction can be reported to their physicians.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

I drink instant Korean ginseng tea. It's easier to use than loose tea or tea bags. I can carry these around everywhere and I travel with them too. The directions say to mix it in hot or cold water but I always have it hot. I usually drink ginseng tea in place of regular tea or coffee. I do add some sweetener, usually honey.

Just a warning though, some instant ginseng tea products contain lactose. So people who are lactose intolerant should read the ingredients list carefully.

serenesurface

@literally45-- I'm not an expert on ginseng tea, but I think that red ginseng tea is superior to the American version. Most people I know drink Chinese or Korean red ginseng tea. Korean red ginseng is stronger than American ginseng, it's also warmer.

Regardless of what type of ginseng tea you decide to buy, I highly recommend getting one with added flavors like green tea. Ginseng doesn't taste very good. It can take some time to get used to it. If you get plain ginseng tea, you may have a hard time drinking it.

literally45

I've never drank ginseng tea before. My coworker keeps telling me about the health benefits of ginseng and I've decided to give it a try. What type should I get-- American ginseng tea or red ginseng tea? I mainly want to drink it for its stress fighting, antioxidant properties.

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    • Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands or years.
      By: Uros Petrovic
      Ginseng root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands or years.
    • Roots, stems, and leaves can all be used to make ginseng tea.
      By: thongsee
      Roots, stems, and leaves can all be used to make ginseng tea.
    • Red ginseng tea is typically more expensive than other types of tea.
      By: Fisher Photostudio
      Red ginseng tea is typically more expensive than other types of tea.