How to Make Ginseng Coffee (Easy & Energizing Recipe)

Last updated on June 30th, 2025 at 11:48 am

Ever wondered if there’s a smoother way to boost your energy than just your regular cup?

A few years ago, I was flipping through an old issue of Whole Foods Magazine while learning more about healthy herbs.

There was this short piece buried near the back about ginseng coffee. It claimed to boost mental focus and stamina, as well as support the immune system.

I was intrigued but skeptical. That weekend, I picked up a small jar of Korean red ginseng powder and tried it with my morning espresso. I found the earthy taste a bit weird at first. But let’s say I didn’t stop at one cup

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make ginseng coffee at home, including the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, flavor tips, and whether those instant sachets are worth your time. So let’s start brewing!

What Is Ginseng Coffee?

Ginseng coffee is essentially regular coffee that’s been infused with ginseng root extract or powder. Usually Korean red ginseng or American ginseng. You can expect an earthy, slightly sweet drink that’s surprisingly smooth, depending on how you brew it.

Now, you can find it prepackaged in instant sachets (especially popular in South Korea).

However, making it fresh is easy and tastes way better. All you need is some quality ginseng powder or a few drops of liquid extract, strong brewed coffee, and maybe a touch of honey or cinnamon.

This drink’s been getting popular because it gives you a nice energy boost that feels more balanced than caffeine alone.

You get that clear-headed focus without the mid-morning crash or jittery hands. Plus, it comes with some pretty impressive health perks too.

Health Benefits of Ginseng

If you’ve ever wondered why people drink ginseng in the first place, here’s a quick look:

Benefit	What It Means for You
Natural energy boost	More alert without feeling wired or shaky
Improves focus and brain function	Great for deep work or long study sessions
Supports physical stamina	Ideal for workouts or busy days on your feet
Helps manage blood sugar levels	Especially helpful for those watching their metabolism
May reduce inflammation	Good for long-term wellness and immune support

Notes:

One thing to keep in mind is to start small. A little ginseng goes a long way in both flavor and effect. If you add too much, it can make the drink bitter or even mess with your sleep if you have it too late in the day.

Also, if you’re using it regularly, make sure the ginseng you’re buying is high-quality and not packed with additives.

Korean red ginseng is a personal favorite, but American ginseng has a mellower taste if you’re after something gentler.

Tips for Better Flavor

If you’ve ever had a cup of ginseng coffee that tasted like dirt water or left your tongue a little numb, then here are a few things you can tweak to bring out the best:

Use high-quality ginseng (look for red ginseng or Panax)

First off, don’t cheap out on the ginseng. I once grabbed a random bag off a discount shelf, and the drink ended up tasting like old roots soaked in mud.

I recommend going for Korean red ginseng or Panax ginseng from a reputable source (I’ll share a few brand picks later).

Bonus points: if it’s labeled “6-year-old root,” that’s when the beneficial compounds are fully developed.

If it’s overly processed or packed with additives, it can totally mess with both the flavor and the health perks.

Start with a small amount

This is one of those “less is more” situations. I learned this the hard way by dumping in a full tablespoon once. The bitterness hit like a brick.

I suggest starting with ½ teaspoon and working your way up. You can always add more next time, but you can’t un-bitter a brew.

Try blending with milk for a creamier taste

Ginseng has an earthy, almost herbal edge to it and while I’ve grown to like that, mixing in a splash of warm milk or even oat milk smooths it out nicely. It rounds off that sharpness and makes the whole thing feel more like a latte.

Avoid overboiling ginseng

If you’re going old-school and simmering ginseng slices, don’t boil it to death. Instead, keep the water at a gentle simmer. It should be enough to coax out the compounds without cooking them into bitterness.

Also, overboiling tends to release harsher notes, and it ruins the calm, balanced flavor you want.

Instant Ginseng Coffee Mixes (Are They Worth It?)

So, let’s talk about those little sachets of instant ginseng coffee that you’ve probably seen online or tucked away in an international aisle. Are they worth it? Well, it depends. I’ve tried a handful over the past few years and below are a few standouts:

KGC Korean Red Ginseng Coffee Mix

This one’s probably the most popular of the bunch. It comes in sachets, has a mellow coffee flavor with a strong ginseng kick, and you’ll feel that smooth lift in energy. Usually, you can find it on Amazon, iHerb, or in many Asian supermarkets.

If you’re after that classic ginseng flavor and a clean energy boost, this one sets the bar pretty high. Just be prepared; it’s not subtle.

Gold Choice Ginseng Coffee

If you’re into rich, full-bodied coffee with a smooth herbal twist, then Gold Choice Ginseng Coffee is a total win. I enjoyed it because it strikes a balance between bold dark roast flavor and that mellow, slightly sweet ginseng aftertaste and it’s not overpowering, just cozy and energizing.

It’s the kind of drink that’s perfect for your mid-morning break or a chill afternoon when you don’t want a harsh caffeine but still need to stay sharp.

If you’re the type who enjoys café-style instant drinks or you’re always on the go, this one’s got the flavor and health perks.

Pocheon Insam Ginseng Coffee

Now this one is more bitter, and the ginseng flavor is way more upfront. I don’t consider it my favorite, but it might be yours.

If you’re someone who enjoys traditional herbal drinks or you want less sugar and more of that raw ginseng kick, this might be worth a try. Just don’t expect it to go easy on you.

Notes:

The best thing about instant ginseng coffee is its quickness. I mean, you tear a pack, pour, stir. Typically, it’s great for travel or when you’re in a rush.

But flavor-wise, it won’t beat a fresh espresso with real ginseng. Most mixes are loaded with sugar and creamer. For this reason, the actual coffee and ginseng take a back seat.

Last Thoughts

So, are you brewing your ginseng coffee blends at home or sticking with the instant sachets? I’d love to know. Do you have a go-to ginseng powder or extract you swear by?

Maybe a secret spice combo that takes it to the next level? Or hey, if you’ve found a killer brand I didn’t mention, don’t keep it to yourself.

I’d love to read your comments below and help the rest of us upgrade our cups.