By Eric Brand

These are the Japanese ginseng roots that were in the bag shown above. Notice how they are yellowish-white on the outside and red on the inside. Dong Yang Shen is said to get better as it ages. Properly stored, it can be aged for years. The longer it ages, the more harmonious and fragrant it is said to become.

Authentic Dong Yang Shen is slightly expensive, this grade costs about $200 for 600 grams on the U.S. market. I only started eating Dong Yang Shen relatively recently, but I've become a big fan. The flavor is very clear and clean, and the therapeutic effect is excellent.

Given the fact that many American patients have heat, one would think that Dong Yang Shen would be a very popular ginseng here. However, it seems that few people have even heard of it. It is worth learning about.