Thirty-six images of Panax quinquefolius, American ginseng; 西洋参; xi yang shen, a member of the Araliaceae (ginseng family) found in rich woods in eastern North America. Commericial production is in North American and northeastern China. Root considered demulcent, tonic. Research suggests it may increase mental efficiency and physical performance, aid in adapting to high or low temperatures and stress (when taken over an extended period). Ginseng’s effect is adaptogenic—tending to return the body to normal while increasing resistance to adverse influences to the body. Ginseng has long been considered an aphrodisiac.