Ginseng is the fleshy root of the panax plant. The word "panax" is derived from the Greek word "panacea", which means "universal remedy".

Asian Ginseng is a type of ginseng that is most commonly used for a variety of medicinal, health, and beauty related purposes. In ancient times, ginseng was used as an aphrodisiac, anti-aging, and energy-boosting tonic that could be consumed orally. It was also very popular to produce and consume ginseng tea as well. Furthermore, people would also boil slices of ginseng and use the water on their skin to feel refreshed and boost skin health - think of it like an ancient toner. 

According to Barbara Close, an esthetician who specializes in therapeutic herbalism, ginseng tea improves stamina as well as stimulates and relaxes the nervous system. 

We know that ginseng has a lot of history when it comes to improving bodily health and even some of the first usages of ginseng a a skin reviver, but we haven't dove into the cosmetics industry too much just yet. 

So when did ginseng become so popular in skin care products? 

If we think of the first brand that really put ginseng on the market in the world of Korean skincare, the company Sulwhasoo would come to mind. 

At our Korean Skincare shop, we have a brand which also promotes the benefits of natural ingredients, particularly including ginseng. This brand is called Beauty of Joseon. 

Beauty of Joseon is based off of the Joseon Dynasty. Hwang Jini, known as the most beautiful woman of the Joseon era, and other court ladies used to put boiled ginseng roots and leaves in their bathing water to maintain healthy skin. 

Beauty of Joseon's Dynasty Cream consists of revitalizing ginseng and softening orchid. Plus, it has a more budget-friendly price tag of €19.45. The Dynasty Cream helps to firm, smooth, and moisturize skin. 

Other than their Dynasty Cream, Beauty of Joseon also has a reviving ginseng serum and a ginseng essence water in their collection. 

The Revive Serum: Ginseng + Snail Mucin is a lightweight yet nourishing serum. It consists of 63% ginseng root water. It helps to protect the skin from external stimuli by retaining moisture deep in the skin for a long time. 

The Ginseng Essence Water contains 80% ginseng root water, ginseng callus culture extract, ginseng root extract, as well as ginseng root ferment filtrate. This complex of ingredients helps promote anti-aging and hydrated skin that will help other skincare products work more effectively.

These are just two featured products from Beauty of Joseon that contain ginseng. However, there are many more, including a ginseng based Cleansing Oil and Eye Serum. 

All of these products have budget-friendly price tags of under €20!

At Korean Skincare, we often see how much the Beauty of Joseon products are loved, and we completely understand. We can't get enough of them either!