Similar to Cereboost™, which has been evaluated in multiple clinical studies supporting cognitive performance, ginseng — particularly Panax ginseng and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) — is one of the most recognised botanicals in the dietary supplement market. Its popularity and high market value also make it a target for adulteration.
Botanical adulteration refers to the substitution or addition of misidentified, lower-quality materials (adulterants) to a botanical ingredient. These practices are often motivated by cost pressure, supply shortages, or the high market value of authentic ginseng roots. In some instances, the adulterant may completely replace the original botanical ingredients.6 Adulteration typically occurs without disclosure, leaving buyers and consumers unaware that it has taken place.
Adulteration compromises both safety and efficacy, eroding consumer confidence and damaging the integrity of the entire botanical sector.
Substitutes sometimes include unrelated roots such as Codonopsis, Ashwagandha (Withania), or even Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus). Because these plants have different active compound profiles they cannot be expected to deliver the same physiological effects as American ginseng. In some cases, fraudulent products have even been found to contain synthetic stimulants, raising direct safety concerns for consumers.
American ginseng contains naturally occurring compounds called ginsenosides. The cognitive benefits observed in clinical studies with Cereboost™, our patented American ginseng extract, are associated with its distinctive composition and the specific structure and ratio of these ginsenosides.
These compounds can vary depending on the species and geographic origin of the plant. When products are substituted with non‑Panax quinquefolius materials or include non‑root plant parts, this unique profile becomes diluted. As a result, adulterated products may not provide the scientifically supported properties linked to authentic American ginseng.
Adulteration undermines rigorous scientific research and damages trust in the proven benefits of authentic American ginseng ingredients such as CereboostTM.
There are three key things companies can do to ensure that they’re sourcing authentic American Ginseng ingredients.
Unrealistically low prices can be a warning sign of substitution, dilution, or other forms of fraud and should prompt further investigation.
Partner with suppliers who provide full traceability from cultivation to extraction and who document their authentication procedures clearly.
Analytical techniques such as chromatographic profiling and spectroscopy can help verify botanical identity, confirm purity, and detect potential adulteration.
At Givaudan, we source American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) from trusted growers. Each batch is authenticated through advanced ginsenoside fingerprint analyses, fully aligned with international best‑practice guidelines to detect potential adulterants.
By combining science‑based testing with transparent supply partnerships, we ensure our customers receive premium, traceable, and genuine CereboostTM extracts they can trust, upholding the integrity of this remarkable brand.
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