Canadian Ginseng FAQ

Last updated: October 15, 2026

Answers to the questions customers ask us most often about Canadian ginseng, ordering, and visiting our shop in Montreal.

What is Canadian American ginseng?

It is the root of Panax quinquefolius, also called North American ginseng, grown in Canada. It is a different species from Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). Cultivated American ginseng is grown commercially in Ontario.

What do "4-year", "5-year" and "6-year" mean?

They describe how many years the root grew before harvest. Our ginseng comes in several ages and forms, from small whole roots to premium whole roots, slices, fibers, branches and powder. See the full product list.

How do I know the ginseng is authentic Canadian ginseng?

Origin cannot be proven by appearance alone. Buy from a seller listed by the Ontario Ginseng Growers Association (official buyer list), look for the OGGA "Running Root" logo on products, and ask for documentation. We explain this in detail in our guide to buying authentic Canadian ginseng.

Do I need a permit to take ginseng out of Canada?

For whole or sliced roots, yes, a Canadian CITES export permit is required. Powders and other processed products are generally not covered. See the Government of Canada's American ginseng page and our Travelling with Ginseng page.

Where is your shop?

78 Rue De La Gauchetière Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2Z 1C1, in Montreal's Chinatown. Phone: (514) 861-9339.

Do you ship within Canada?

Yes. You can order online at fosetter.com and we ship within Canada. See our shipping and refund policies in the footer for details.

Can I visit the shop and see the products?

Yes. More products are available at our physical store than online. Call (514) 861-9339 before you come if you are looking for something specific.

Do you sell sea cucumber and other dried goods?

Yes. Besides ginseng, we sell dried sea cucumber (Canadian and Caribbean), bird's nest fragments and other health-food ingredients. Browse the product list.