Many people ask me whether American ginseng and goji berries can be soaked together in water. I have been drinking this combination for over two years, and to be honest, there is some truth to it. Today, I won’t talk about anything mystical. I’ll just share my actual experience from an ordinary person’s perspective, and how to choose good quality products.
American ginseng and goji berries are very common ingredients in the world of dietary supplements. American ginseng slices are light yellow in color with clear textures. When eaten, they are initially bitter but leave a sweet aftertaste. Goji berries, when eaten dry, are a bit like raisins. They swell up when soaked in water and taste sweet and refreshing. When combined, the bitter and sweet flavors neutralize each other, making it very palatable.
Why I Combine These Two Ingredients
I first started with American ginseng because I often felt tired during the day and couldn’t concentrate. Later, a friend who knows about ingredients told me that the ginsenosides in American ginseng are well-known in the dietary supplement world. Many people who insist on taking it for a while feel a difference in their overall state. After drinking it for about two weeks myself, the most obvious change was that I wasn’t as sleepy in the afternoon.
As for goji berries, I’ve always liked them. I usually throw a handful into my porridge or when soaking water. They contain components like Lycium barbarum polysaccharides and beta-carotene. People who eat them regularly often say their complexion looks more rosy. Combining American ginseng and goji berries together merges the benefits from two directions, taking care of both your mental state and supplementing daily nutrition.
Several of my office worker friends have also started drinking this combination. Their feedback is: they brew a cup in the morning and bring it to the office. After drinking it, their energy levels throughout the day are more stable than before, unlike before when they would start yawning at 3 PM. Of course, everyone’s constitution is different, but based on everyone’s reactions, this combination does have its following.
How to Brew It Correctly? Sharing My Method
First step, prepare the ingredients. I recommend buying the sliced type of American ginseng, preferably with even thickness. For goji berries, choose plump, large ones with a dark red color. I usually use 3 to 4 slices of American ginseng and a small handful of goji berries, about 10 to 15 pieces.
Second step, brew. First, rinse the cup and ingredients with hot water, discard the water, and then pour in freshly boiled water. Cover and let it steep for 5 to 8 minutes until the American ginseng slices are fully expanded and the goji berries have softened. The water temperature shouldn’t be too low, otherwise, the ginseng flavor won’t be released.
Third step, refill for a second brew. The first brew has the strongest flavor. After drinking it, you can add hot water again. The second brew will have a milder ginseng taste, but the sweetness of the goji berries will still be there. I usually brew it once more to avoid wasting the ingredients.
If you prefer cold drinks, you can also let it cool and then put it in the refrigerator. It’s very refreshing to drink in the summer. However, I personally recommend drinking it hot for a better taste.
How to Choose Without Getting Tricked?
The origin of American ginseng is very important. Common ones on the market are domestic and imported from the USA. I have compared them myself. Imported American ginseng slices have denser textures and more uniform color. The water they are brewed in is more yellow, and the ginseng flavor is stronger. However, they are also much more expensive. Domestic ones offer good value for money. The key is to check if the slices are intact and free of impurities.
Here are a few tips for selecting:
- Check the color: Good American ginseng slices are light yellow or light brown. If they are too white, they might have been fumigated with sulfur. If they are too dark, they might have been stored for too long.
- Smell the aroma: Genuine ones have a faint ginseng fragrance, similar to ginseng but milder. If there is a sour or musty smell, don’t buy them.
- Feel the texture: Dried American ginseng slices are hard and break cleanly when snapped. If they are soft or sticky, it means they have absorbed moisture.
- Taste it: Take a small slice and chew it. It should be bitter first, then sweet, with a clear aftertaste. If it’s only bitter or has no taste at all, the quality is questionable.
For goji berries, the main things to look at are the origin and dryness. Ningxia goji berries are recognized as high quality, with large grains, thick flesh, and few seeds. Grab a handful; if they don’t stick to your hand or clump together, they are dry enough. Overly bright red colors are not good. Naturally dried goji berries are dark red with some wrinkles.
A Few Small Questions About Combining and Storing
What is the right ratio of American ginseng to goji berries?
I’ve tried different ratios and found that 3 to 4 slices of American ginseng with a small handful of goji berries is the most suitable. If you prefer a stronger ginseng flavor, you can add up to 5 slices. If you like it sweeter, just add a few more goji berries. It completely depends on personal taste; there is no standard answer.
Can I add other things to the brew?
Yes, you can. I occasionally add one or two chrysanthemum flowers for a more refreshing taste. Some people also add red dates for a sweeter flavor. However, I suggest adding only one type at a time to see if it suits your taste. Don’t add too many types at once, as it might overpower the original flavor of the American ginseng.
How to store leftover American ginseng and goji berries?
American ginseng slices must be sealed and stored in a cool, dry place. It’s best to use a glass jar to prevent moisture absorption. Goji berries are more delicate; it’s recommended to store them in the refrigerator, otherwise, they can easily get bugs in hot weather. I usually buy small packages and finish them within a month of opening.
Who Should Not Drink This?
Although American ginseng and goji berries are very mild ingredients, there are still some things to be aware of. For example, people who have a cold or fever should stop drinking it temporarily. Also, people prone to diarrhea might feel uncomfortable if they eat too many goji berries. If pregnant women want to drink it, it’s safer to consult a doctor first.
Additionally, don’t drink too much on an empty stomach, especially first thing in the morning. Eat something first before drinking to make your stomach feel better. I usually brew a cup after breakfast and drink it as my morning beverage.
In conclusion, soaking American ginseng and goji berries in water is a combination worth trying. As long as you buy the right products and use the right brewing method, drinking a cup daily can lead to improvements in your energy and skin condition over time. I recommend purchasing from reputable sources. Don’t be tempted by low prices; good quality ingredients are the ones that are effective.
Having drunk this for so long, I genuinely think this combination is great. If you have your own way of drinking it or have encountered any problems, feel free to leave a comment and share. If you like this article, remember to like and follow me. I’ll have more practical dietary supplement tips to share with you in the future!
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