Biochemical, Pharmaceutical, and Medical Perspectives of Ginseng

Ginseng, the root of Panax ginseng ( Araliaceae ), has been used in oriental medicine since ancient times as a stimulant, tonic, diuretic, and stomachic agent. In Europe, ginseng phytomedicines are used for a wide range of pharmacological activities. These preparations can increase physical and mental performance, as well as resistance to stress and disease and prevent exhaustion. An update is given on the chemistry, biological effects, molecular mechanisms, and possible therapeutic uses, as well as on quality control, of Panax ginseng and of phytomedicines based on root extracts of this plant. Special emphasis is placed on the structures of the ginsenosides—monodesmosidic and bisdesmosidic saponins—which are considered to be the main active compounds, as well as on their quantitative determination in ginseng roots and phytomedicines.