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Ginseng Bioactive Components as Gut-Brain Axis-Targeted Modulators: Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms in
Silu Liu1, Lanshi Tian1, Weijia Chen1
1College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
Nutrients
|June 12, 2026
Summary
Ginseng
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Neurogastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of use.
- Key bioactive components like ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and polyphenols are linked to the gut-brain axis (GBA).
- Existing reviews often focus on single diseases or mechanisms, lacking a holistic view of ginseng's GBA effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze how ginseng's bioactive components regulate the gut-brain axis (GBA).
- To provide a comprehensive overview of ginseng's role in multifactorial disease intervention via the GBA.
- To identify therapeutic potential and future research directions for ginseng in GBA-related disorders.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of major databases for studies on ginseng components and GBA regulation.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on ginseng's mechanisms of action.
- Synthesis of findings on ginseng's impact on gut microbiota, intestinal barrier, inflammation, and neurotransmitters.
Main Results:
- Ginseng components modulate the GBA through gut microbiota regulation, intestinal barrier protection, anti-inflammatory effects, and neurotransmitter modulation.
- These effects show preclinical promise for neurodegenerative, mood, metabolic, and gastrointestinal disorders.
- Ginseng exhibits a multifaceted GBA regulatory effect across various disease categories.
Conclusions:
- Ginseng's bioactive components offer a promising therapeutic strategy for GBA-related conditions.
- Further clinical validation is required to translate preclinical findings into human therapies.
- This review provides a foundation for developing ginseng-based interventions targeting the GBA.
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