American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) is a federally regulated plant that is highly sought after for its perceived medicinal benefits. However, poaching and over-harvesting have lead to a steady decline in the abundance and distribution of this valuable species. As a consequence, only 19 US states allow for the harvesting of wild American ginseng (USFWS 2021). Fortunately, Illinois has some of the strictest laws in the nation regarding the harvesting of wild American ginseng (IDNR Ginseng Regulations).

HARVESTING: It is illegal to harvest or dig wild American ginseng plants (1) without a valid IDNR Ginseng Harvester's License, (2) on all public lands, (3) with fewer than four prongs and less than 10 years in age, and (4) outside the legally designated harvest season established by the IDNR. A comprehensive list of state laws and regulations regarding the harvesting, sale, and movement of American ginseng can be found on the Illinois Division of Forest Resources website.