(ginseng) An herb with a root that has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems. It may have anticancer effects.

(american ginseng) The aromatic root of the perennial herb Panax quinquefolius, native to eastern North America. American ginseng, used in Chinese traditional medicine and available as a nutritional supplement, is classified as an adaptogenic herb with multiple effects, many of which are regulatory in nature. It contains a complex mixture of saponin glycosides, also known as ginsenosides or panaxosides. Although the mechanism of action is unclear, this agent is reported to enhance the immune system and reduce fatigue.

Ginseng is a family of plants. Dietary supplements are derived from American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) or Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a different genus and does not contain the ingredients believed to be active in the 2 forms used in supplements.