Hi dafish!

A good way to tell real from fake ginseng is the TASTE. Real ginseng tastes like dirt! I mean like MUD, bitter and earthy, if you are getting a spicy or sweetish flavor, it's probably not real, though if it tastes like feet or b.o. you're fine. As to the numbing sensation, yes, this is a real effect of ginseng, though you may want to make it weaker if it bothers you. The ginseng was actually healing your burnt tounge, and if you get a numbing or tinglilng in the future, do not be alarmed. However, if you experience headache, body ache, nausea, stomach pains, or dizziness, stop taking and consult someone who can chemically test what you have taken, i have no idea what kind of wierd roots are in circulation nowadays, and some of them may taste similar and be poison. Have fun!