Basics of Korean ginseng

Here’s this week’s tip on Korean language and customs:

Q:
Each time I travel to see my colleagues and family members in Europe and the United States, I pick up a few boxes of Korean ginseng as gifts. What I thought was all the same turned out to be different, as ginseng can be dried, powdered or candied. Even ginseng tea had a number of varieties and prices.

What’s a tip for buying ginseng products from Korea?

A:
Ginseng is largely divided by the method of preparation. What’s available from authorized dealers is hongsam or red ginseng, made with top-grade ginseng which has been specially processed for effective preservation of the root. A type of ginseng that is washed and dried in the field, but not previously steamed, is called geonsam. Fresh ginseng, or susam, is popular, but because ginseng is perishable, packaged ginseng is preferred by shoppers.

Ginseng used to be found in the wild but most ginseng roots are cultivated these days. The rare, wild variety is called sansam, and commands a steep price, depending on its age, size and condition.

Commercially available ginseng comes in various types, from powder, granules, capsules to extract and more. Hongsam extract or tablets are more expensive, while tea bags or candies made from regular ginseng make ideal casual souvenirs.