Ginseng extract and ginsenosides improve neurological function and promote antioxidant effects in rats with spinal cord injury: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Journal of Ginseng Research, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2021.05.009 · Published: June 18, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Alternative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can disrupt function, and current treatments have limitations. This review explores ginseng extract and ginsenosides for neurological recovery and antioxidant effects in rat SCI models. The study analyzed data from previous animal studies, focusing on neurological function and antioxidant levels after ginseng or ginsenoside treatment following SCI. The findings suggest that ginseng extract and ginsenosides may have a protective effect on SCI, showing improvements in motor function and antioxidant activity in rats.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Rat models of Spinal Cord Injury

Evidence Level

Meta-analysis and Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
Ginseng extract and ginsenosides significantly improved neurological function, as measured by the BBB locomotor rating scale.
2
Ginseng extract and ginsenosides significantly decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating reduced oxidative stress.
3
Ginseng extract and ginsenosides significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, suggesting enhanced antioxidant activity.

Research Summary

This meta-analysis investigated the effects of ginseng extract and ginsenosides on neurological recovery and antioxidant efficacy in rat models of SCI. The review found that both low and high dosages of ginseng extract and ginsenosides showed significant improvement in motor function recovery in SCI rats. The authors conclude that ginseng extract and ginsenosides have a protective effect on SCI, suggesting their potential suitability for future clinical trials and applications.

Practical Implications

Future Clinical Trials

The findings support the potential of ginseng extract and ginsenosides as a therapeutic intervention for spinal cord injury, warranting further investigation in human clinical trials.

Clear Mechanism of Action

The study highlights a clear mechanism of action involving antioxidant effects, suggesting a targeted approach for SCI treatment.

Dosage Considerations

The subgroup analysis indicates that higher dosages of ginsenosides (≥25 mg/kg) may lead to better motor function recovery compared to lower dosages.

Study Limitations

1
The overall methodological quality of the included studies was relatively low.
2
A moderate amount of heterogeneity was observed in the included studies.
3
It is uncertain whether all relevant studies were identified.

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