LookAtVietnam – The Ngoc Linh Ginseng (K5 ginseng), a root famous for its medicinal properties, has provided a much-needed lifeline to many households of the Co Tu ethnic minority in central Quang Nam Province.

Ngoc Linh Ginseng.

The Ngoc Linh ginseng originally grew only on the Ngoc Linh Mountain in the province’s Nam Tra My District, Bon says.

Recognising the root has high economic value and that some areas in the district have ideal soil and climate conditions, local authorities encouraged residents of Ch’om, Gary, Phuoc Loc, Tra Nam and Tra Cang communes to cultivate it.

Bh’riu Liec, chairman of the Tay Giang People’s Committee, says the district has some primary forests with natural conditions similar to the Ngoc Linh Mountain.

“This is the most important reason that made us decide to invest in growing the Ngoc Linh gingseng in our locality,” Liec says.

“While planting the root, people were supported with money and rice, so that they could lead an easier life,” adds vice-chairman of Tay Giang People’s Committee, Bhling Mia.

“Our efforts have paid off. About 40,000 Ngoc Linh ginseng (K5 ginseng) plants are growing well in the communes,” he says.

Every 150 plants that are six years old can give one kilo of fresh root worth VND15 million (US$880), Bon says.

Tests have shown that the Ngoc Linh ginseng planted in Tay Giang District are of similar quality to the original, according to experts of the pharmaceutical testing laboratory at HCM City University of Medicine and Pharmacy.

“Everyone was very happy when they found that Ngoc Linh ginseng can grow well in this area. We are determined to take good care of the ginseng gardens. We also wish the local authority further expands ginseng gardens to create more jobs for local people,” says Ch’om Commune Party Secretary Riah Dum.

Mia notes that among Ngoc Linh ginseng gardens in the border area, those planted in Ch’om Commune’s Zruot Hamlet develop much better than others.

The 200sq.m Ngoc Linh ginseng garden at the Zruot Hamlet stands 1,500m above the sea level. The roots have been planted on a thick humus layer under the canopy of very old trees in the forest.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News