Java Ginseng

(Jewels of Opar; Fameflower; Tu ren shen) Easy-to-grow alternative to true ginseng! This is an important medicinal herb and food plant in South America, Africa and Asia. It is also a popular ornamental with succulent leaves and wispy sprays of pink flowers. In Brazil it is widely used like ginseng for physical weakness. In Indonesia the roots are considered a good alternative to the much more expensive (and harder to grow) Korean ginseng, and are widely used as an aphrodisiac. Animal studies have confirmed the roots increase libido and strengthen male orgasm. The mucilaginous leaves are popular in soups and salads throughout the tropics.