Scientists named a plant that improves gut and brain function

Ginseng has the ability to improve gut microflora, reduce inflammation, and beneficially affect brain function. These findings were obtained by researchers from Jilin Agricultural University — their comprehensive review was published in the journal Nutrients.

The scientists focused on ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and other biologically active compounds abundant in ginseng. The analysis demonstrated that these compounds can reshape the composition of gut microflora, strengthen the intestinal protective barrier, and suppress inflammatory processes.

The researchers paid special attention to ginseng's influence on the gut-brain axis — an extremely complex network of connections between the digestive and nervous systems. Science has established that gut bacteria participate in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, regulate immune responses, and can affect cognitive functions, emotional well-being, and the risk of developing neurological diseases.

According to the review, the active components of ginseng act on multiple links of this system simultaneously. In animal experiments, they reduced damage to the intestinal mucosa, stimulated the growth of beneficial microorganisms, and suppressed inflammatory reactions associated with the development of inflammatory bowel diseases.

Positive effects were also recorded in models of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, obesity, and diabetes. In many cases, improvement in gut health went hand in hand with changes in brain function and metabolism.

According to the authors, one of the key mechanisms of ginseng's action is the reduction of chronic inflammation levels. Inflammatory processes in the gut can affect the central nervous system through immune signals, hormones, and metabolic byproducts of the microbiota.

However, despite the encouraging results, the scientists make an important caveat: most of the available data has been obtained from laboratory experiments and animal studies. To confirm the effectiveness of ginseng for humans, large-scale clinical trials are needed — they will help determine optimal dosages and assess the long-term safety of this approach.