Ginseng, The Divine Root

Description

The story behind ginseng is as remarkable as the root itself. Prized for its legendary curative powers, ginseng launched the rise to power of China's last great dynasty; inspired battles between France and England; and sparked a boom in Minnesota comparable to the California Gold Rush. It has made and broken the fortunes of many and has inspired a subculture in rural America unrivaled by any herb in the plant kingdom. Today ginseng is at the very center of alternative medicine, believed to improve stamina, relieve stress, stimulate the immune system, enhance mental clarity, and restore well-being. It is now being studied by medical researchers for the treatment of cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease. In Ginseng, the Divine Root, David Taylor tracks the path of this fascinating plant--from the forests east of the Mississippi to the bustling streets of Hong Kong and the remote corners of China. He becomes immersed in a world full of wheelers, dealers, diggers, and stealers, all with a common goal: to hunt down the elusive "Root of Life." Weaving together his intriguing adventures with ginseng's rich history, Taylor uncovers a story of international crime, ancient tradition, botany, herbal medicine, and the vagaries of human nature. [from publisher description].;1. The root at hand -- 2. The doctors debate -- 3. The emperor's favorite -- 4. Life in a new world -- 5. Pursued by trappers -- 6. Courted by traders, and dancing the ginseng polka -- 7. Traders again -- 8. Outlaws on the road to nowhere -- 9. Tamed, but not -- 10. Shanghaied once more -- 11. Served by the finest chefs -- 12. Back in China -- App. Ginseng use and recipes.