The Origins of American Ginseng

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a plant native to the forests of eastern North America. For centuries, Indigenous peoples valued the plant and its roots as part of traditional practices.

The plant naturally grows in cool, shaded woodland environments, where it develops slowly over several years.

In 1716, it was discovered by Father Joseph-François Lafitau (1681–1746), a French Jesuit missionary, with the help of Mohawk women who recognized the plant from his description of a similar root used in China — leading to its recognition in global trade.

Today, American ginseng is cultivated commercially, particularly in the United States and Canada.

From North America to Asia

During the 18th century, American ginseng became an important trading product between North America and Asia. Its roots were exported to China, where ginseng already had a long history of traditional use.

This trade created a remarkable connection between the forests of North America and Asian markets thousands of kilometres away. Growing international demand eventually helped establish American ginseng as an important agricultural and commercial crop.

Why Wisconsin Became Famous for American Ginseng

Wisconsin became a major centre of American ginseng cultivation because its rich, well-drained soils, cool seasonal climate and natural growing conditions are well suited to Panax quinquefolius.

Over generations, Wisconsin growers developed specialised knowledge in cultivating, harvesting and processing ginseng. Today, the state is internationally recognised for its long-standing ginseng-growing tradition and is one of the key sources of cultivated American ginseng.

From Wild Ginseng to Cultivation

American ginseng was originally harvested from the wild forests of North America. As demand increased, concerns grew about the pressure placed on natural ginseng populations.

Cultivation provided a more sustainable way to produce American ginseng while reducing reliance on wild harvesting. Over time, growers developed specialised methods to recreate the shaded woodland conditions the plant naturally prefers.

Today, cultivated ginseng from regions such as Wisconsin and Canada forms an important part of the global supply.

Note on Authenticity
Not all ginseng labeled "American" is actually grown in the US — the species is also cultivated overseas under license, and imported ginseng is sometimes sold under the American name regardless of where it was actually grown. Knowing the actual growing region and grower matters if authenticity is important to you.