Korean Red Ginseng: Qualitative and Quantitative Benefits on Helicobacter pylori Infection

Ginseng has been reported to reduce the risk of cancer in diverse organs, including the lip, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, lung, liver, pancreas, ovary, colon, rectum, and stomach, as demonstrated in clinical and epidemiological studies. studies, base on which findings, Panax ginseng has been classified as a "non-organ-specific cancer preventive." However, the recent keen interest in traditional medicinal herbs has been frequently questioned, about exact mode of action and the use of panaceic compounds has been a prime issue discussed in terms of complementary and alternative medicine. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the mitigating effects of Korean red ginseng on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-associated atrophic changes and carcinogenesis; However, evidence-based medicine, consisting of large-scale or well designed clinical studies, is still warranted whether Korean red ginseng is to be recognized as an essential therapeutic strategy regarding a "H. pylori-associated gastric cancer preventive." Specifically, comprehensive clinical trials of Korean red ginseng are needed to demonstrate that mucosal regeneration in patients with atrophic gastritis is feasible using Korean red ginseng supplements after the eradication of H. pylori infection. Ginseng is a good example of a natural herb and its ubiquitous properties may include the reduction or delay of inflammation carcinogenesis. Korean red ginseng contains ample amounts of active ginsenosides and we have demonstrated their effects in in vitro and in vivo studies with positive outcomes. In this review, the quantitative and qualitative benefits of Korean red ginseng in the treatment of H. pylori infection are described.