No. While different herbs can have similar health benefits, Ci Wu Jia (once known as “Siberian ginseng”) is a different herb than what is known as “ginseng.”

For over 2,000 years, Ci Wu Jia has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is valued as a bittersweet “warming herb.” This single herb traditionally has been used in various tonics and beverages for itsadaptogenic (normalizing) effects on the bones and joints. Other adaptogenic effects include increasing resistance to environmental stress, such as exposure to high temperatures and conditions that cause motion sickness. It has long been used to aid circulation, increase stamina, improve athletic performance, relieve sleeplessness, and support the immune system.

Ci Wu Jia is often called an “adaptogen.” This is a nonmedical term used to describe substances that reportedly strengthen the body and increase general resistance to daily stress. Adaptogens aren’t a new concept; they’ve been studied throughout history as a way to improve the body’s ability to respond to stress, increase energy and attention, and fight off fatigue.