Ginsenosides are pharmacologically active natural constituents of ginseng and other plants of the genus Panax. Structurally, they are steroid glycosides derived from the triterpene squalene. Ginsenoside Rg3 is a panaxadiol found in white and red P. ginseng. This ginsenoside has diverse in vitro and in vivo effects, including anti-cancer, neuroprotective, anti-hypertensive, and anti-inflammatory actions. Ginsenoside Rg3 induces apoptosis and inhibits angiogenesis in a variety of cancer models. Notably, this ginsenoside can be produced by heating other ginsenosides, leading to elevated levels in steamed or dried ginseng preparations.
