Red ginseng is one of the most prized herbs in Chinese medicine, it’s known as ‘all-healing man root’ and has been used for thousands of years. It’s a popular herbal supplement for energy, finding your mojo, and for times when stress depletes vital energies. However, the effectiveness of ginseng is dependent upon how the herb is digested and absorbed. This is why fermentation of ginseng is important – it increases the amount of active compounds, known as saponins and also improves bioavailability.
Fermentation transforms the complex pharmacological ingredients in ginseng into low molecular weight active compounds. These are more easily absorbed in the body and can be more effective. In a recent study, researchers discovered that fermented ginseng increased the absorption of ginsenosides by up to 160% over non-fermented ginseng. The scientists used a method that involved inoculating kimchi lactic acid bacteria into ginseng and then fermenting it at 30 to 40 °C for 48 to 120 hours. The resulting ginseng extract was able to improve the absorption of ginsenosides, and also significantly increase their phenolic content.
Nonfermented ginseng reduced hypertriglyceridemia in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice by inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis and hepatocellular lipid accumulation, while fermented ginseng increased the expression of apolipoprotein A4 (apoA4) and improved hepatic lipid metabolism in the liver. The results suggest that fermentation enhances the hepatoprotective effect of red ginseng by increasing apoA4.
Youguth uses six-year old Korean ginseng roots in its products as they have more ginsenosides and have a less bitter taste. The company also uses a fermentation process that includes probiotics to help the body absorb the ginseng more effectively. The product’s ginseng is also enzyme-treated to reduce the bitterness. Research shows that enzyme-treated ginseng is more readily absorbed into the bloodstream and can reach the brain and the gut faster. In addition to that, research has shown that it can help prevent cancer and treat fatigue. It has also been shown to decrease cholesterol levels and increase the number of white blood cells. It can also improve blood glucose control and reduce insulin resistance, as well as prevent depression and anxiety. In addition, fermented ginseng can promote a healthy sleep pattern and lower blood pressure. The product’s website states that it can even help with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. It is available in powder, liquid and capsule forms.