Efficacy of Rg3‐Enriched Korean Red Ginseng (Steamed Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer) Extract on Arterial Stiffness and Blood Pressure in Healthy Volunteers

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the acute effects of 10% Rg3‐enriched Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) on arterial stiffness and peripheral and central systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in healthy adult volunteers.MethodsUsing a double‐blind, randomized, crossover design, 17 individuals (6M:11F; age 25±3; BMI 22±0.8; SBP 111±4, DBP 69±2mmHg) were administered 400mg 10% Rg3‐enriched KRG extract or 400mg corn starch placebo. Aortic augmentation index (AIx) and central BP were measured using applanation tonometry by radial pulse wave analysis and peripheral BP was evaluated oscillometrically. Measurements were taken at baseline and 1,2 and 3hrs post‐treatment.ResultsCompared to placebo, there was a significant reduction in peripheral mean arterial pressure (p=0.046), peripheral DBP (p=0.015), and central SBP (p=0.02) 3hrs post‐treatment. Central DBP and central mean arterial pressure were significantly lower at 1hr (p=0.035, 0.041) and 3hrs (p=0.025, 0.009) post‐treatment. AIx and peripheral SBP also decreased post‐treatment, but this only approached significance (p=0.053).ConclusionsThis study is the first to demonstrate that an Rg3 KRG extract acutely lowers central and peripheral mean arterial pressures in healthy young adults. Further clinical testing is still required as this extract may be more potent in higher‐risk subjects.Sponsor: Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada