Effects of Two Rg3-Enriched Korean Ginseng Preparations on Blood Pressure in Adults with Early-Stage Hypertension: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: Ginsenoside Rg3, a bioactive component of processed Korean ginseng, has demonstrated vasodilatory and blood pressure-lowering effects; however, clinical evidence on the long-term effects of Rg3-enriched ginseng preparations remains limited. This study evaluated the effects of two differently processed Rg3-enriched Korean ginseng preparations on blood pressure in adults with early-stage hypertension.

Methods

In this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 90 adults were randomly assigned to vitamin C-treated white ginseng (VTWG), enzyme-treated red ginseng (ETRG), or placebo (n = 30 per group). Both interventions provided approximately 40 mg/day of Rg3. Changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were primary outcomes.