Ginsenoside

Ginsenosides are a class of steroid-like compounds, triterpene saponins, found exclusively in the plant genus Panax (ginseng). Ginsenosides have been the target of research, as they are viewed as the active compounds behind the claims of ginseng's efficacy. Because ginsenosides appear to affect multiple pathways, their effects are complex and difficult to isolate.

Ginsenosides
Ginsenosides are separated by column chromatography. Ginsenoside content can vary widely depending on species, location of growth, and growing time before harvest.

Rb1
Appears to be most abundant in Panax quinquefolius (American Ginseng).

Rb1 seems to affect the reproductive system in animal testicles.

Recent research shows that Rb1 affects rat embryo development.

Another study shows that Rb1 may increase testosterone production in male rats indirectly through the stimulation of the luteinizing hormone. Ironically, traditional Chinese medicine asserts that panax quinquefolius promotes yin and reduces yang in the body.

It also inhibits chemoinvasion and angiogenesis.

Rf
Present in Panax ginseng; not present in Panax quinquefolius.

Rg1
Appears to be most abundant in Panax ginseng (Chinese/Korean Ginseng). Improves spatial learning and increase hippocampal synaptophysin level in mice, plus estrogen-like activity (which could account for the boosting of "yang" theory)