Review · Volume 21, Issue 2 · pp. 364–379
Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities of Panax japonicus: A Comprehensive Review
Li Wang1,2, Ao-jia Zhou1,2, Yi-dan Zhang2, Cheng Fan1,2, Shan-shan Hu3, Zhi-yong Zhou3, Ding Yuan3, Ting Wang1,2
- 1Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Process, College of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- 2Department of Nutrition Hygiene and Toxicology, Academy of Nutrition and Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- 3Department of Pharmacy, College of Medical Science, Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China.
Abstract
Background: Panax japonicus (P. japonicus) belongs to the Panax genus of Araliaceae and is used as medicine mainly with the bamboo whiplike rhizome, which has the functions of dispelling blood stasis and hemostasis, attenuating swelling and pain, eradicating phlegm and relieving cough, tonifying, and strength.Objectives: This review intends to summarize the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of P. japonicus to provide a scientific and systematic basis for better utilization of its rational applications.Methodology: The literature was searched using PubMed, Baidu Scholar and Science Hub search engines.Results: The chemistry components isolated from P. japonicus are mainly saponins, besides also including polysaccharides, amino acids, volatile oils, inorganic elements, etc. P. japonicus exhibits extensive pharmacological activities including antiinflammatory, antioxidant, lipid lowering activities, and therefore show extensive protective effects on the central nervous system, cardio-cerebrovascular system, digestive system.Conclusion: This article included a thorough summary of the botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of P. japonicus and provided evidence for its further research and clinical applications.
Keywords: Panax japonicus (Family Araliaceae); phytochemistry; pharmacological activities; saponins
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