Discover Canadian Ginseng
Last updated: October 15, 2026
Canadian American ginseng has a long history in Quebec. This page explains where it comes from, how it is grown and sold today, and how to buy it with confidence.
What is American ginseng?
American ginseng, also called North American ginseng, is the root of Panax quinquefolius. It is a different species from Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). The plant grows wild in the forests of eastern North America.
What is the link between ginseng and Montreal?
In the summer of 1716, the Jesuit missionary Joseph-François Lafitau found American ginseng near the Mohawk village of Kahnawà:ke (Sault-Saint-Louis), near Montreal, after asking local Iroquois people about the plant. They already knew it, and he described it in print in 1718. Once the plant was identified, ginseng became one of New France's most valuable exports: the Government of Canada notes it rapidly became the second most important Canadian export after fur. (Sources: Dictionary of Canadian Biography; Government of Canada.)
Is Canadian ginseng wild or cultivated?
Wild American ginseng has become very rare in Canada, and it is protected. The Government of Canada says only cultivated American ginseng can be legally traded in Canada, and the export of wild ginseng from Canada is prohibited. The ginseng sold in shops comes from farms. Commercial cultivation is concentrated in Ontario, where the Ontario Ginseng Growers Association (OGGA) represents more than 150 growers.
What ages and forms does ginseng come in?
Ginseng roots are harvested after several years of growth, commonly 4, 5 or 6 years in our range, and sold as whole roots, slices, fibers, branches or powder. Older and larger roots are generally priced higher. See our full product list.
How do I buy authentic Canadian ginseng?
Appearance alone cannot prove origin. Buy from a seller listed on the OGGA buyer list, look for the OGGA "Running Root" logo, and ask for documentation. Read our full guide, How to Buy Authentic Canadian American Ginseng in Montreal, and our Canadian Ginseng FAQ for more answers on buying, permits and shipping.
Traditional use and health benefits
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) was introduced to China in the early 18th century and is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinics. TCM regards it as cool in nature but not drying, good for replenishing qi and producing body fluids. In 1757 the physician Wu Yiluo listed it in the Ben Cao Cong Xin (本草從新) as "American ginseng": "cool and slightly sweet in nature; rich in taste but thin in qi; it nourishes the lungs and reduces fire, produces fluids and relieves fatigue; suitable for those who are deficient and have internal heat."
Because American ginseng is cool in nature, it is best taken when there is a need to replenish qi and nourish yin, such as dry mouth, a parched tongue, cough, heat in the palms and physical fatigue. Most older people show signs of qi and yin deficiency, which is a natural part of ageing, and using American ginseng appropriately at that time is also beneficial.
Calms the mind and supports the nervous system
The saponins in American ginseng can effectively strengthen the central nervous system, calming the mind, eliminating fatigue and enhancing memory. It is suitable for symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, memory decline and Alzheimer's disease.†
Protects the cardiovascular system
Regular consumption of American ginseng can counteract arrhythmias, protect against myocardial ischemia, combat myocardial oxidation and strengthen myocardial contraction.† For coronary heart disease patients whose symptoms present as deficiency of both qi and yin, with heart palpitations and shortness of breath, long-term consumption of American ginseng has a significant effect.† American ginseng also helps regulate blood pressure: it can reduce both temporary and persistent hypertension, and aids recovery from high blood pressure, arrhythmia, coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction and cerebral thrombosis.†
Boosts immunity
As a top choice of health supplement for invigorating qi, American ginseng can promote the synthesis of serum protein, bone-marrow protein and organ protein, thereby enhancing the body's immunity, inhibiting cancer-cell growth and effectively resisting cancer.†
Promotes blood vitality
Long-term consumption of American ginseng can reduce blood coagulation, inhibit platelet aggregation, counteract atherosclerosis and promote the growth of red blood cells, increasing hemoglobin.†
Supports diabetes care
American ginseng can lower blood sugar, regulate insulin secretion and promote the metabolism of sugar and fat, providing certain auxiliary effects in treating diabetes.
Nourishes the lungs, reduces fire, replenishes the stomach and produces fluids
American ginseng is cool in nature, tastes bitter and slightly sweet, and is associated with the heart, lung and kidney channels. It nourishes the lungs and reduces fire, and replenishes the stomach and produces fluids.
Note when using Canadian ginseng: do not take it with radish, and avoid taking it with strong tea or coffee. American ginseng can weaken the effect of the blood thinner warfarin. If you have a health condition or take medication, ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any ginseng product.
† This is the traditional Chinese medicine view or early laboratory research. It has not been confirmed in clinical studies in people, and ginseng is not a treatment for these conditions.
Travelling with ginseng
Whole and sliced roots need a CITES export permit to leave Canada. See Travelling with Ginseng.