Extraction, preparation, pharmacological activities, and potential applications of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5

Wenjing Jia ¹, Hong Zhang ², Jiaxue Cheng ³

⁰Research Institute of Marine Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao, 266109, PR China; Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University (Weifang People's Hospital), Weifang, Shandong, 261000, PR China.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology +

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October 6, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 show enhanced bioavailability and superior therapeutic potential compared to common ginsenosides. Further research and clinical trials are needed to fully realize their benefits in healthcare and nutrition.

Area Of Science

Phytochemistry and Pharmacology
Medicinal Chemistry
Nutraceutical Science

Background

Panax species are vital medicinal resources, with rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 possessing superior antitumour, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities.
Challenges in natural abundance, complex structures, and sustainable production limit the industrial application of rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5.
Ginsenosides are the principal bioactive compounds in Panax species, with rare variants like Rk1 and Rg5 offering enhanced physiological benefits.

Purpose Of The Study

To systematically review recent advancements in rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5, focusing on sources, extraction, structure, pharmacology, and applications.
To consolidate evidence on Rk1 and Rg5 to bridge preclinical findings with clinical translation for healthcare and nutrition.
To explore the potential of rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 in functional foods and nutraceuticals.

Main Methods

Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, and other databases (March 2005-March 2025).
Keywords included "rare ginsenosides," "Rk1," "Rg5," "pharmacological effects," and "biosynthesis."
Network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to predict anticancer and reproductive protective effects.

Main Results

Rk1 and Rg5 exhibit superior biological activities due to unique structures enhancing cell permeability and oral bioavailability.
Pharmacological models show Rk1 and Rg5 possess stronger anti-tumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.
Emerging technologies like AI-assisted biotransformation and synthetic biology offer new production pathways for Rk1 and Rg5, with identified targets for therapeutic applications.

Conclusions

Rare ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 are promising candidates for next-generation nutraceuticals and therapeutics.
Optimizing extraction, clarifying pharmacokinetics, and conducting clinical trials are crucial next steps for Rk1 and Rg5.
Addressing current challenges will enable the full potential of Rk1 and Rg5 to meet global health needs.

Keywords:

Applications Extract preparation Ginsenosides Rg5 Ginsenosides Rk1 Pharmacological activity

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