Therapeutic potential of ginseng and its bioactive compounds in inflammatory bowel disease: current evidence and future directions

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease characterize by persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that can substantially impact quality of life. Due to the inconsistencies and adverse effects associated with conventional therapies, there is an increasing demand for safer and more reliable treatment alternatives for IBD. The pathogenesis of IBD involves multiple factors, including the overactivation of signaling pathways, elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, and activation of immune cells. Traditionally, ginseng has been used as both a dietary component and a therapeutic agent, its bioactive constituents (ginsenosides and their derivatives) have demonstrated potential therapeutic effects in preclinical IBD models. Numerous studies have shown that ginsenosides may ameliorate experimental colitis through multiple mechanisms, including the inhibition of inflammatory signaling pathways, regulation of cytokine production, modulation of immune cell activity, and alteration of the gut microbiota. However, clinical studies investigating the use of ginsenosides in the treatment of IBD are extremely limited. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of IBD pathology and highlight the therapeutic potential of ginseng and its derivatives, particularly ginsenosides, as emerging therapeutic option, along with their current challenges and prospects.