Ginseng coffee: an alternative to classic espresso?

Increasingly loved by all fans, ginseng coffee is now a drink consumed in coffee shops throughout the day. A success that tickles the curiosity: in fact, not everyone knows what is the origin of this drink, its benefits and effects on the body.

Ginseng, in fact, is an invigorating, energizing and digestive root, considered-in the Asian tradition from which it comes-an almost universal remedy against any kind of illness or difficulty. In particular, ginseng, a name derived from the Chinese word "rensheng" meaning man, is believed to be a valuable ally against aging.

Precisely because of the specific properties of this root, a specific blend of black coffee and ginseng was devised, thus creating what we can commonly order or taste as: ginseng coffee.

Let's see what its characteristics are and what benefits of the root are also translated into the drink.

Ginseng coffee: what is it?

Ginseng coffee, then, is made by infusing beans or coffee powder with the root of Panax quinquefolius, which is the type of American ginseng. The root has a faint, characteristic odor and a slightly spicy, mucilaginous flavor that is initially bitter but then veers to sweet.

The roots can be 3.5 cm to 20 cm long and 0.5 to 2.5 cm thick: they are often tapered downward and curved at the end. The root surface is covered with longitudinal roughness, and transverse rings, more or less marked, can be seen in the upper area.

From root powder to coffee shops around the world, the transition today is short. But it is important to note that ginseng coffee is considered to be a difficult drink to classify. In fact, it can be included among both foods and dietary supplements. What pleases is, in this regard, the naturalness of the blend that makes ginseng coffee an often preferred alternative for those who are particularly sensitive to this aspect of diet.

Does ginseng coffee contain caffeine? Here are the ingredients

There is no single recipe for ginseng coffee, however in general there are some recurring elements that we find in most commercial versions of the drink:

• Cream of milk , which can be either plant-based or lactose-free.
• Sugar, in subjective amounts depending on the level of sweetening of the drink we want to achieve, considering that, compared to traditional coffee, this is less bitter precisely because of the presence of the root powder.
• Instant coffee, containing an albeit minimal dose of caffeine, which, therefore, is also present in ginseng coffee, but in an amount not considered responsible for possible addiction.
• Dry ginseng extract, which is a powdered extract of the root that preserves its properties

Ginseng coffee: benefits

One of the reasons why more and more people are choosing ginseng coffee is because of certain benefits that characterize this beverage and differentiate it from the classic espresso. While it is widely consumed in the East because of its scientifically unproven aphrodisiac potential, in the West it is often used to stimulate mental functions. Indeed, the beneficial effects there is increased clarity, responsiveness and alertness. According to some, it also has a positive impact on the ability to memorize concepts or content of various kinds.

In this regard, there are some scientific studies aimed precisely at highlighting the correlations between the components of ginseng, including in the form of coffee, and the Central Nervous System. The results achieved so far affirm that the oriental root exerts an action of modulating the state of arousal of neurons, thus making them ready to give an optimal response to external and internal stimuli.

Also from a biological point of view, some molecules contained in ginseng coffee have been found to have a vasodilator effect and, therefore, would also benefit blood circulation. This aspect, which has not yet been fully and exhaustively investigated, would open an important therapeutic window for all those suffering from high blood pressure.

Proponents of ginseng coffee consumption as an alternative to the traditional beverage also point out that there are other concrete health benefits to be derived from the root itself. For example, some scientific research seems to endorse the hypothesis that ginseng derivatives positively modulate blood sugar, naturally lowering it when it is high. Other studies, however, have observed how the beverage made from coffee beans and Panax quinquefolius powder can contribute to a general strengthening of the immune system.

For whom is ginseng coffee recommended?

It seems well established that ginseng coffee has concrete health benefits. In particular, it is recommended for those who lead a very hectic and busy lifestyle and are looking for a way to relax and relieve tension. In fact, especially unlike traditional coffee, ginseng coffee helps to reduce stress and fatigue, contributing to improved mood and vitality.

Among other benefits that we can also observe on our own bodies, if we decide to supplement our diet with ginseng coffee, it should also be mentioned that it improves the sense of appetite and relieves fatigue. A true panacea for many of the little ills prevalent among the population. But among so many benefits, are there also contraindications to the consumption of this hot drink?

Ginseng coffee: does it have contraindications?

In general, for those in good health, there are no real contraindications to consuming ginseng coffee; in fact, the presence of caffeine in the drink is so low as to rule out the possibility of developing any form of addiction.

However, excessive use-thatis, exceeding four cups per day-can cause headaches, insomnia, palpitations and an increase in blood pressure. In this regard, it should be remembered that the effect can be subjective and, consequently, it is a good idea to always refer to medical advice if these symptoms are encountered.

Finally, the consumption of ginseng coffee is not recommended for those with severe hypertension, those suffering from duodenal ulcer and severe insomnia. In these cases, in fact, even a limited amount of the beverage could have unpleasant consequences.

How to consume ginseng coffee

After discovering all the secrets and benefits of ginseng coffee, all that remains is to answer one last curiosity: how is this increasingly popular beverage consumed ? The answer is very simple: in fact, it resembles traditional coffee in this respect as well. You can choose from hot, iced, macchiato with milk, sweetened or sweetened, as well as as part of cappuccino or café-latte. Versatility, in fact, is another feature of ginseng coffee that makes it a perfect alternative for those who do not want to do without coffee, in all its variations.