Traditional Asian herbs have long been used for both health and beauty benefits since ancient times; and ginseng is one of them. The benefits of ginseng are numerous and it has been long cherished in South Korea for its healing properties. In fact, ginseng has now found its place in major skincare brands for its anti-aging benefits.
GINSENG AND THE HISTORY BEHIND IT
Also known as the ‘root of immortality’, ginseng is a prized traditional herb that is widely used in Asia for its numerous medicinal benefits. It relaxes the nervous system, increases blood circulation, improves stamina, and strengthens the immune system.
The tonic herb is grown as a root and resembles the legs of an Octopus when it grows. It takes about six years to harvest the ginseng root. That is when it is believed to be most potent for its use. The root is usually taken in the form of meals and drinks to reap its health benefits.
Ginseng has long been a staple in traditional Chinese and Asian medicine for centuries. But it took hundreds of decades to infuse the magical herb into skincare products for topical use. With the aim to incorporate traditional herbs into skincare, renowned K-beauty brand Sung-Hwan Suh decided to create their skincare offerings, formulated with the ginseng root. Since then, ginseng has found its way into numerous beauty brands spanning across both eastern and western countries.
SKIN BENEFITS OF GINSENG
Legend has it that ginseng was a beauty secret kept by one of the most beautiful women in history, Hwang Jini of the Joseon dynasty. Although it took a while to realize the hidden gems of what this root has to offer to our skin.
Ginseng root is believed to contain a plethora of minerals and compounds that are beneficial for skin like Vitamins B1, B2, B12, saponins, pectin, pantothenic acid, and so on. It also comes with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, that help fight against the free radicals that damage the skin.
The antioxidants in ginseng are the core elements that help to shield your skin from environmental aggressors, causing brown spots and hyperpigmentation. Ginseng helps in suppressing melanin production and prevents your skin from getting unwanted spots.
Ginseng is beneficial for all skin types but it works best especially for those who are anxious about their aging skin. A mixed dose of compounds comprising the polysaccharides and glycoproteins help in reducing visible fine lines and wrinkles while firming the skin. Because ginseng helps in blood circulation, it enables the skin’s blood vessels to circulate better allowing the collagen to synthesize more effectively.
Along with these skin benefits of ginseng, it also helps de-puff fine lines around the eyes and reduce the appearance of dark circles. This explains why ginseng is found formulated in an array of under-eye creams and serums.
When it comes to dull skin, ginseng has much to offer. The energizing elements in ginseng act as the brightening agents and adds a dose of radiance to your dull skin.
No matter what skin concerns you have, chances are ginseng can help counter your problem. With all the skin benefits of ginseng, it is worth giving this natural ingredient a chance on your skincare shelf. Because, it is a natural skin balancer, you can be assured of this root delivering the best skin results.
WHERE TO BEGIN
Tempted to try some ginseng products and feel the benefits of ginseng for yourself? Here are a few products to start with.
I’M FROM GINSENG SERUM
This serum is formulated with a concentration of 7.98% ginseng extracts that has been grown for 6 long years. Ginseng is a known antioxidant which improves blood circulation and combats fine lines and wrinkles. So, with this serum you can be sure of keeping the wrinkles at bay. The Red Ginseng and Panax Ginseng Seed Oil in the serum help to deeply nourish and replenish the skin.
I’M FROM GINSENG MASK
Enriched with the goodness of Red Ginseng and Panax Ginseng Seed Oil, this wash-off mask comes in a rich and thick formula that works to gently exfoliate the dead skin cells and give you healthier skin. The Ginseng in the mask helps detox the skin, leaving it refreshed and rejuvenated.
Read more about how this mask can help detox your skin here.
