Sometimes, when people encounter something strange, they turn to the internet for answers. When they can’t find anything, they ask online communities for help.

A woman found something unusual in her garden that puzzled her. The object looked alien-like, with an oblong skull, a narrow torso, and long, reed-like limbs where arms and legs would be.

At first, she thought it might be a mushroom but quickly ruled that out. She asked her friends for ideas, but they were just as confused, so she turned to Reddit for help.

She first posted in a mushroom expert group, but no one could identify it. They suggested she try the “Alien Bodies” subreddit.

Although people there were also unsure, one user, Ok-Bus-2410, warned, “Wear gloves, don’t touch it directly. Classic X-Files mistake!”

So, what is it?

Ginseng is a slow-growing plant, often taking several years to mature fully, which is one of the reasons it’s considered so valuable. Because of over-harvesting and habitat loss, wild ginseng populations have become endangered in some areas, so much of the ginseng used commercially is now grown in controlled, cultivated environments.

1. Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng) – This type of ginseng is native to East Asia, particularly Korea, China, and Russia. It thrives in the mountainous forests of these regions, preferring shaded, moist environments with well-drained, rich soil. It’s typically found growing in areas with cool to moderate temperatures.
2. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) – As the name suggests, this type of ginseng is native to North America, especially in the northeastern United States and parts of Canada. It grows in forested areas with a cool, temperate climate. American ginseng prefers shaded areas, often under hardwood trees, and requires rich, loamy soil with good drainage.

Ginseng is a popular herbal root used in traditional medicine, especially in Asia and North America. It’s known for its potential health benefits, such as boosting energy, improving cognitive function, and supporting overall vitality. Ginseng comes in a few different varieties, with Panax ginseng (often called “Asian ginseng”) and American ginseng being the most common.