Identification of Active Ingredients in Ginseng Volatile Oil: A Strategy Combining Computer Virtual Screening With Experimental Validation

Ginseng volatile oil (GVO) is a valuable active ingredient in ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) with high research potential. Drying procedures alter the real composition of the fresh material, for example, the evaporation of compounds with low boiling point. In this study, the composition of volatile oil in fresh ginseng (FG), sun-dried ginseng (SDG), and red ginseng (RD) was systematically analyzed to clarify the dominant components of FG and their potential pharmacological effects, which provides a basis for application and development of FG.