Ginseng
Adaptogen
Overview
- Ginseng is a plant-based supplement derived from the roots of the Panax genus.
- Used in traditional medicine for centuries to enhance overall health and well-being.
- Primary purpose: boost energy, reduce fatigue, improve mental clarity.
- Contains ginsenosides, believed to have adaptogenic properties.
- Helps the body adapt to stress and promote balance.
- Supports immune function, cognitive performance, and overall vitality.
Chemistry
- Ginseng contains ginsenosides (triterpene saponins), including Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rf, and Rg1. No single molecular formula or IUPAC name exists due to the complex mixture.
- Ginsenoside Rb1: Molecular formula C₅₄H₉₂O₂₂, IUPAC name: (3β,12β)-3-[(O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-12-hydroxydammar-24-en-20-oic acid. Key features: dammarane-type triterpene aglycone, two glucose molecules at positions 3 and 20, hydroxyl group at position 12.
- Ginsenoside Rg1: Molecular formula C₄₂H₇₂O₁₃, IUPAC name: (3β,12β)-3-[(O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-12-hydroxydammar-24-en-20-oic acid. Key features: dammarane-type triterpene aglycone, two glucose molecules at position 3, no hydroxyl group at position 20.
- Properties of Ginsenosides: Soluble in water, methanol, and ethanol; poorly soluble in non-polar solvents; relatively stable at room temperature but can degrade under high temperatures, light, or in the presence of enzymes; various biological activities.
Sources & Quality
- Species: Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng), American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero senticosus).
- Natural Sources: Wild-harvested or cultivated. Wild ginseng is considered higher quality but less available.
- Extraction/Synthesis Methods: Solvent extraction, water extraction, steam distillation, fermentation. Biotechnology or chemical synthesis methods are less common.
- Quality Considerations for Supplements: Species, source, extraction method, standardization (amount of active compounds), purity.
Where to Buy Ginseng
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