Molecular targets of Panax ginseng in Inflammation and Oxidative stress: A Narrative Review

Abstract

A traditional herbal remedy with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties is Panax ginseng, also known as Korean ginseng. Its bioactive triterpene saponins (ginsenosides) are principally responsible for these pharmacological actions. Recent mechanistic research on ginsenoside targets in oxidative stress and inflammation is summarized in this review. Major ginsenosides (Rb1, Rg1, Rg3, Rh2, compound K) block IKK/IκBα activation and downregulate pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, TNFα, COX-2) to inhibit NF-κB signaling in inflammation. (Jang et al., 2023) Additionally, they inhibit inflammasome activation (NLRP3/IL-1β) and MAPK (p38/ERK/JNK) pathways. Ginsenosides promote antioxidant enzymes (HO-1, SOD, and CAT) and lower ROS in oxidative stress by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway. By maintaining membrane potential and electron transport chain function, they reduce mitochondrial ROS and safeguard mitochondria. Crucially, ginsenosides regulate the NF-κB–ROS–Nrf2 crosstalk: ROS can trigger NF-κB and inflammasomes, whereas ginsenoside-induced Nrf2 activation strengthens antioxidant defenses that suppress ROS and reduce NF-κB signaling. (Huang et al., 2021)In models of cancer, diabetes, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease, ginsenosides' dual actions provide protective effects. (He et al., 2022)This review emphasizes the necessity of standardized clinical trials and highlights particular molecular targets and dosage evidence.