Ginseng as a therapeutic target to alleviate gut and brain diseases via microbiome regulation

The human gut, which contains a diverse microbiome, plays an important role in maintaining physiological balance and preserving the immune system. The complex interplay between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gut microbiome has gained significant attention due to its profound implications for overall health, particularly for gut and brain disorders. There is emerging evidence that the gut-brain axis (GBA) represents a bidirectional communication system between the CNS and the gastrointestinal tract and plays a pivotal role in regulating many aspects of human health. Ginseng has shown potential to ameliorate conditions associated with dysbiosis, such as gut and CNS disorders by restoring microbial balance and enhancing gut barrier function. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the potential of ginseng as a herbal modulator of GBA as a therapeutic intervention for preventing and treating gut and neurological diseases via microbiota regulation to ultimately enhance overall health. Furthermore, we emphasize the therapeutic benefits of ginseng, its ability to enhance beneficial probiotics, such as Firmicutes, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia while reducing pathogenic bacteria prevalence, such as Helicobacter, Clostridium, and Proteobacteria. Although the connection between ginseng regulation of microbial communities in response to the gut and neuropsychiatric disorders is lacking, additional investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, optimize dosages, and explore the clinical relevance of ginseng in promoting GBA balance and ultimately overall health.