Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

Getting To The Root Of It All … With “Ginseng Diggers”

WUTC

Published May 11, 2022 at 4:02 PM EDT

Luke Manget with the cover of “Ginseng Diggers”

In the forests of Appalachia, you’ll find ginseng.

In the 1800’s, the cultivation of the wild herb - known for its medicinal properties - built a global trade.

Luke Manget is assistant professor of history at Dalton State College in Dalton, Georgia.

He dug into all this - and more - in his recent book: “Ginseng Diggers: A History of Root and Herb Gathering in Appalachia,” published by The University Press of Kentucky.