[Histochemical localization of ginsenosides in Gynostemma pentaphyllum and the content changes of total gypenosides]

The light microscopy technique, histochemistry and phytochemistry methods were applied in the study of the localization of gingsenosides in the vegetative organs in Gynostemma pentaphyllum, and the content of total gypenosides related to different growing periods, organs and genders. The results showed that ginsenosides distributed mainly in the assimilating tissue and phloem parenchyma cells, very little in collenchyma, epidermis and phelloderm, and no coloration in xylem and pith parenchyma. The accumulation of gingsenosides in the leaf occupied first place, the stem came second, and the root was the lowest. The content of total gypenosides showed a changing trend from low to high, then to low, during the whole growing period from vegetative growth to florescence and fructescence, and withering period. The content in leaf is higher than that in stem, and of male is higher than of female. It is suggested that harvest the above-ground parts only and remaining the rhizome and root in florescence and fructescence (Sept. to Oct.) is of benefit to both improving herbal quality and quantity, and accelerating the sustainable utilization for wild resources.