A review of Ginseng species in different regions as a multipurpose herb in traditional Chinese medicine, modern herbology and pharmacological science

Abstract

Ginseng is the most famous of the Chinese herbs throughout the world, and has been one of the most valued herb in China. Traditional Chinese medicine as an essential element of alternative and complementary medicine, advanced over thousands of years with its own distinctive arrangement of therapies, diagnostics theories and in Asian countries, particularly China. In most parts of the world, especially western countries, Ginseng has been largely employed in recent decades and has become renowned for its important function in treating and preventing so many diseases. Panax ginseng consisted of a number of active constituents, like ginsenosides, nitrogenous substances, carbohydrates, phytosterol, organic acids, essential oils, amino acids, peptidoglycans, it's repeated, nitrogen-containing compounds, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and other phenolic compounds. Ginsenosides are classified into two main groups known as protopanaxadiol (PPD) and protopanaxatriol (PPT). Pharmacological activities of ginseng extracts are effects on the central nervous system, antipsychotic action, tranquilizing effects, protection from stress ulcers, increase of gastrointestinal motility, anti-fatigue action, endocrinological effects, enhancement of sexual behaviour, acceleration of metabolism, or synthesis of carbohydrates, lipids, RNA, and proteins. More clinical studies are necessary to uncover the numerous substances and their effects in ginseng that contribute to public health. Key words: Ginseng, traditional Chinese medicine, herbology, pharmacological science.