Changes of Ginsenoside Content by Mushroom Mycelial Fermentation in Red Ginseng Extract

Summary

This research explored using edible mushrooms to make red ginseng compounds more easily absorbed by the human body. Scientists found that certain mushrooms, particularly Phellinus linteus, can transform ginseng compounds into forms that are more bioavailable when consumed. This process could make ginseng supplements more effective for consumers. Impacts on everyday life: – More effective ginseng supplements for consumers – Safer and more standardized production of beneficial ginseng compounds – Potential for new functional food products combining ginseng and mushroom benefits – More cost-effective way to produce health-promoting ginseng products – Improved understanding of how to maximize ginseng’s health benefits

Background

Ginseng is a valuable oriental herb traditionally used as a healing drug and health tonic. Red ginseng, produced by steaming and drying, contains over 40 ginsenosides with various biological activities. When taken orally, ginsenosides must be metabolized by intestinal bacteria to more bioavailable forms. Various transformation methods exist but have limitations, creating a need for food-grade microorganisms that can effectively metabolize ginsenosides.

Objective

To screen edible mushroom species capable of metabolizing ginsenosides from ginseng and investigate changes in levels of total sugars, uronic acid, polyphenols, and ginsenoside metabolites during fermentation. The study aimed to identify suitable mushroom mycelia that could replace human intestinal bacteria in biotransforming ginsenosides into their metabolites.

Results

RGEs fermented by Phellinus linteus, Cordyceps militaris, and Grifola frondosa showed high levels of total ginsenosides. Ferments with P. linteus (9109.2 μg/mL), G. frondosa (7023.0 μg/mL), and C. militaris (6974.2 μg/mL) demonstrated elevated levels of ginsenoside metabolites compared to non-fermented RGE (3615.9 μg/mL). A 20 brix concentration of RGE was found optimal for P. linteus fermentation, with maximum biotransformation achieved after 5 days.

Conclusion

Phellinus linteus proved to be an effective tool for structure modification and metabolism study of ginseng, as well as for preparing minor ginsenosides and intestinal bacterial metabolites from ginseng extract. The fermentation process increased absorbable ginsenosides such as Rh1, Rg3, Rg5, and Rk1, making it a viable method for enhancing ginseng bioavailability.
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