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ginseng

/ˈdʒɪn.seŋ/ Chinese Origin Health

Original Word

人参

Mandarin (rén shēn)

Entered English

17th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "ginseng"

From Mandarin 'rén shēn' (人参), literally 'man root', referring to the forked shape of the root resembling a human figure. Valued in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Example Usage

"Ginseng tea is believed to boost energy levels."

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