The General History of China, 1734

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The General History of China (1739) gave a good introduction of Ginseng taken from classical Chinese texts. It details the source, collection and nature of the plants growth.

It also details the taste and virtues of the plant, along with combinations, particularly extolling its combination with Fu Ling (Poria). It also lists the combination with Huang Qi (Astragalus) and Licorice as a 'noble remedy' to remove feverish Heats, to eliminate Hot and Humid 'Vapors', and to restore Radical Moisture (Yin).

It gives a list for the diseases for which it may be used emphasising the use of Ginseng in weakness and debility.

We have transcribed the entire section on Ginseng which can be read here.

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There are a number of traditional formulas for using Ginseng, taken from classical Chinese Medicine texts. The recipe in the center, right, is very similar to an Electuary of European pharmacy, prepared as a Electuary with Ginger juice, Honey and Ginseng powder, taken for weakness and poor appetite.