Panax ginseng in psychiatric disorders: Mechanisms and therapeutic potentials

Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer is a traditional medicinal herb with a long-standing history as a tonic and adaptogen. Accumulating evidence suggests its therapeutic potential for enhancing mood and cognition, as well as mitigating stress-related psychiatric conditions. This comprehensive review assesses the neuropharmacological mechanisms and potential therapeutic effects of Panax ginseng in psychiatric disorders, based on preclinical and clinical data. Ginseng and its active constituents, particularly ginsenosides, modulate key neurotransmitter systems-including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid-while exerting neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress responses. Preclinical models have shown antidepressant and anxiolytic properties comparable to conventional pharmacotherapies, alongside pro-cognitive and neuroprotective actions. Although clinical evidence remains emerging, existing studies indicate potential benefits for depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, specifically improving symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. Consequently, Panax ginseng may hold promise as an adjunctive therapy for various psychiatric disorders. Its multimodal mechanisms-encompassing monoamine modulation, neurotrophic support, and adaptogenic stress reduction-provide a rationale for its clinical application. Nonetheless, rigorous large-scale clinical trials are essential to confirm efficacy, determine optimal dosing, and ensure safety.