A study by Chinese scientists, published in the journal Nutrients, found that protein components of American ginseng protect nerve cells from damage and alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
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The researchers conducted an experiment involving laboratory mice with artificially induced Parkinson’s disease. Over 28 days, the animals were given an extract rich in proteins from American ginseng, and researchers assessed their motor abilities, memory and brain functions.
The results showed that mice receiving the extract performed better in movement tests and spatial navigation tasks. Their brain dopamine levels also returned to normal, while the accumulation of alpha-synuclein a protein associated with the development of Parkinson’s disease decreased.
The researchers also observed reduced inflammatory activity and changes in the composition of the gut bacteria in the animals that received the extract. At the same time, some metabolic disturbances associated with the disease declined.
According to the scientists, the protective effects of ginseng components may be linked to interactions between the gut and the brain. However, the precise mechanism remains unknown. They believe American ginseng could eventually provide a basis for developing new approaches and treatments to protect nerve cells in neurodegenerative diseases.
Several studies suggest that ginseng contains compounds that support overall nervous system health. A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition also found that ginseng extract may help treat osteoporosis by improving bone microarchitecture.
