Modulatory Effects of Ginsenoside Saponins in Panax notoginseng on Steroid Hormones

Natural compounds with structural similarities to endogenous hormones, such as alkaloids, coumestans, flavonoids, lignans, saponins, and stilbenes, have been recognized increasingly for their potential in preventing and treating endocrine disorders related to steroid hormones. Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen, a member of the Araliaceae family and commonly known as Sanqi or Tianqi, is a valuable herbal medicine used to treat various diseases. The majority of saponins (ginsenosides) found in Panax notoginseng belongs to the dammarane triterpenoid group, exhibiting beneficial biological effects, including the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, pain, inflammation, and injuries, as well as internal and external bleeding caused by injury. The aglycone portion of ginsenosides possesses a steroid-like hydrophobic four-ring structure, similar to steroid hormones. Recent studies have indicated that the Panax notoginseng ginsenoside saponins (PNS) have steroid hormone-like activities, bringing the potential for endocrine disorders treatment. Thus, this review aims to provide the chemical structure and steroid hormone-regulating effects of ginsenoside saponins in Panax notoginseng. Keywords: Panax notoginseng, saponin, steroid hormone, ginsenoside, hormone-like effect.