A new method for quantifying ginsenosides in American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) roots and leaves

Ginsenosides from American ginseng have shown a wide range of biological effects, including antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. The goals of this project were to develop a new method using electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) to identify and quantify seven ginsenosides in ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L., Araliaceae). An acetonitrile/5% aqueous acetic acid gradient was used, the ginsenosides were detected as negatively charged acetate clusters. Using the new method, sixteen leaf and their corresponding root extracts were analyzed for ginsenoside content. It was determined that for ginsenosides Rb2, Rd, Re, and Rf, there was a higher content in the leaves as opposed to the roots. For ginsenosides Rb1, Rc, and Rg1, there was not a significant difference between leaf and root contents. These findings indicate that ginseng leaves are a viable source of ginsenosides, which is significant given that native ginseng populations are threatened by overharvesting.