The ginseng we commonly refer to is artificially cultivated by humans as a substitute for wild mountain ginseng.
Until 400 years ago, there was only wild ginseng, and cultivated ginseng was not yet introduced. Wild ginseng became famous for its powerful health benefits, receiving high praise since the Joseon Dynasty. When the demand for ginseng exceeded the supply, cultivated ginseng was introduced to meet this growing demand.
Comparison of Medicinal Effects: Ginseng vs. Wild Ginseng

Ginsenosides are the key beneficial compounds in ginseng. Wild ginseng contains 20 to 30 times more ginsenosides than cultivated ginseng and has a broader variety of ginsenoside compounds. This is because wild ginseng thrives in the deep mountains of nature, absorbing a wide array of nutrients from its surroundings. The superior health benefits of wild ginseng are largely due to Korea’s unique climate, known for having the most distinct and defined four seasons in the world. This natural environment plays a vital role in enhancing the ginseng’s therapeutic properties.

  • Winter’s Harsh Cold: The intense cold during winter helps wild ginseng develop resilience and a robust defense system. It enters a dormant state, forming protective layers that allow it to accumulate more active compounds. Through this process, wild ginseng gains the ability to withstand the cold winter (its immunity), and this ability is stored as ginsenosides, which help strengthen the human immune system and protect against illness, even during the harsh winter months.
  • Summer’s Intense Heat and Humidity: In the heat and humidity of summer, ginseng faces stress from pests, diseases, and the environment. To protect itself, wild ginseng produces powerful antioxidant compounds that are stored as ginsenosides, which help strengthen the human immune system and protect against illness.
  • Spring and Fall’s Moderate Temperature Changes: During the milder months of spring and fall, wild ginseng absorbs nutrients from surrounding herbs and plants, leading to the accumulation of health-boosting ginsenosides.