Comparative Study on Terpenoids of Panax ginseng under Different Cultivation Modes

PurposeA comparative analysis of Panax ginseng in different cultivation modes was conducted, to provide a scientific and theoretical basis for advocating the reform of P. ginseng cultivation modes and improving the evaluation of quality standards.

MethodTwo-year-old field Radix ginseng and forest Radix ginseng were used to analyze the differences in terpene component between them by ultra performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).

ResultsA total of 105 terpenoids were detected, triterpene saponins > triterpene acids > triterpenes were the top three components in the order of kinds and quantity. A total of 26 different components were screened, with triterpene saponins > triterpene acids > iridoid glycosides were the top three components in the order of kinds and quantity. Among them, there were 21 different components with obviously higher content of forest Radix ginseng than field Radix ginseng, including common ginsenoside (Rd), rare ginsenosides (Rh4, K, Rh10, Rh2, F1, RG4, F2 and Rg3), notoginsenoside (Ft1 and Fe), oleanolic acid and ursolic acid.

ConclusionDifferent cultivation modes affect the synthesis and accumulation of terpenoids of ginseng. Forest cultivation mode promotes the production of more rare ginsenoside, oleanolic acid and ursolic acid compounds. It is speculated that understory soil factor is the key factor affecting the synthesis pathway. This study provides a reference value for promoting the forest P. ginseng cultivation mode and improving the quality evaluation of forest P. ginseng.