On a drizzly morning, the Marathon and the Mengke Family welcomed friends from the Ping Ping Tuen Chinese community. More than 10 families gathered at Mengke Base to celebrate the 2023 American ginseng harvest.
American Ginseng Harvest
The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the American ginseng harvest. The American ginseng scene in the rain is very beautiful. The ginseng leaves are covered with water drops and the ginseng fruits turn from green to red. These ginseng fruits contain the precious seeds of American ginseng, which are very important for the survival of American ginseng.
Medicinal value of American ginseng fruit
American ginseng fruits are known for their high content of ginsenosides, which gives them numerous health benefits. Research shows that ginsenosides have anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, do not consume more than two to three fruits in a day. Dr. Jiang, who humorously calls himself "the best ginseng farmer among doctors, and the best doctor among ginseng farmers", joked: "Eat one pill to extend your life, two pills to make you immortal, but three pills are too tiring."
Passion for work
Despite the constant rain, everyone's enthusiasm for digging for American ginseng and picking American ginseng fruits is still high. For many, this is the first time they have seen an American ginseng plant bearing fruit. Children of all age groups (5-60 years old) were like entering a candy store.
A bucket full of American ginseng fruits
Dr. Jiang’s speech
Dr. Jiang delivered a passionate speech, introducing Percy, the second generation descendant of the Mengke family, and Paul, the third generation descendant of the Mengke family, and thanked them for their warm hospitality. He shared his fate with American ginseng and told the story of how he used American ginseng to save two lives at a critical moment.
Mengke Manor and Apple Orchard Tour
Afterwards, everyone broke corn at Mengke Manor and went to Jiapigou Orchard to collect apples and plums. Due to the continuous rain, the traditional Chinese dance performance originally planned to be held at Mengke Base had to be postponed, but luckily, we had the opportunity to enjoy the dance performed by Yifan.
