Ginseng (rénshēn, 人参)

This gnarled rhizome is perhaps one of the best known of the Chinese herbs. The name literally translates to “human root” because the shape of it vaguely resembles a human body – in TCM, it’s thought that the shape symbolizes ginseng’s potent ability to cure human ills, replenish qi (vital energy), and warm the body. Aside from that, ginseng is an antioxidant, which helps rid the body of free radicals. There is also some evidence that ginseng boosts the immune system, which can help the body fight off infection and disease.