The best way to prepare ginseng is in a ginseng cooker, which is a porcelain double-boiler unit. No waste occurs with this method.

With a ginseng cooker, good ginseng essence is not lost in steam, and less of the herb yields a richer final product. The herbs should be used over several times. In fact, a "ginseng cooker" is the best way to prepare practically all of the tonic brews.

The ginseng cooker has two lids, one flat and one domed shaped which goes on top. Place the ginseng inside the cooker along with enough water (bottled pure water) to cover the herbs (holds 4 cups). Place the cooker with it's contents into a pot of water. The water level in the outer pot should come up to the bottom of the handles. Turn on the burner and and bring the outer water to a boil. (see illustration.)

Allow to simmer until the water has half boiled away from the outer pot. The liquid inside the cooker remains just below boiling and, because of the lids, does not evaporate. When half of the outer water is gone, fill back up to original level and continue cook.

This process is repeated several times, depending upon the time available and the strength of the tea desired. The tea, prepared in this manner, will be very rich. Drink as directed and save the remainder of the brew in a jar for reheating later. Meanwhile, the herbs should be refrigerated.

Herbs cooked in a ginseng cooker can be re-cooked several times. If a root such as ginseng has been used, after the first cooking it is wise to break up the root into smaller pieces so that it's inner tissue can be cooked in subsequent cookings. Many feel that it is the second cooking in a ginseng cooker that will yield the most potent tonic brew.

This method has two advantages. First, none of the elixir is lost in evaporated steam; and secondly, since the water remains slightly below boiling, some of the vitamins and enzymes remain intact that might otherwise be broken down during boiling.

In summary, select your ginseng wisely, prepare it with respect and use it properly, and you will experience the full effects of the "King of Herbs"

Large Ginseng Cooker
$44.99

This is a full size (12 oz.) blue rice-pattern or willow pattern ceramic cup. The lid covers the top of the cup allowing the tea to remain hot while it steeps.

Small Tea Cup - $4.99