Researchers tested a specially treated red ginseng product on older mice to see if it could help with aging-related health problems. They found that the ginseng appeared to protect liver function and improve how the body handles blood sugar. The ginseng also changed the types of bacteria living in the mice’s digestive systems in beneficial ways. These changes happened because the ginseng activated certain protective pathways in the liver. While these results are promising, they were only tested in mice, so we need more research to know if the same benefits would work in humans.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a new type of red ginseng that’s been specially processed could help older bodies work better, especially with liver health and blood sugar control
  • Who participated: Laboratory mice of different ages—some young (9 weeks old) and some old (18-19 months old, which is very old for mice). The researchers tested about 47 mice total across different groups
  • Key finding: Older mice that received the bioconverted red ginseng for 14 weeks showed better blood sugar control and healthier liver function compared to mice that didn’t receive it. The ginseng also increased helpful bacteria in their digestive systems
  • What it means for you: This research suggests that bioconverted red ginseng might help aging bodies maintain better blood sugar control and liver health, but these results are from mice studies only. Much more research in humans would be needed before recommending this as a treatment

The Research Details

Scientists conducted two separate experiments with mice. In the first experiment lasting 4 weeks, they gave older mice (18 months old) either plain water or red ginseng through direct mouth administration, then compared them to young mice. In the second, longer experiment lasting 14 weeks, they fed older mice regular food mixed with different amounts of the specially processed ginseng (low dose or high dose) or regular food without ginseng.

The researchers then examined the mice’s liver tissue using advanced genetic testing to see which genes were turned on or off. They also collected poop samples to identify what types of bacteria were living in the mice’s digestive systems. This allowed them to see how the ginseng affected both the liver and the gut bacteria.

This research approach is important because it looks at multiple ways the ginseng might help—not just one thing. By examining both liver genes and gut bacteria, the scientists could understand the complete picture of how the ginseng works in an aging body. Testing two different administration methods (direct dosing and food mixing) also helps show whether the benefits are consistent

This study was published in The Journal of Nutrition, a respected scientific journal. The researchers used modern genetic sequencing technology to analyze results, which is more accurate than older methods. However, this was only tested in mice, not humans, so results may not directly apply to people. The sample sizes were relatively small (about 10 mice per group), which is typical for animal studies but means results should be confirmed with larger studies

What the Results Show

The 14-week ginseng supplementation appeared to protect how the body handles blood sugar in older mice. This happened through activation of specific protective proteins in the liver (called AKT and mTORC1 pathways) that help cells respond properly to insulin. The ginseng also seemed to prevent a harmful protein (GSK-3β) from interfering with blood sugar control.

The ginseng changed the composition of bacteria living in the mice’s digestive systems in ways that appeared beneficial. Specifically, it reduced the ratio of two major bacterial groups (Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes), which is generally considered healthier. It also reduced potentially harmful bacteria while increasing helpful bacteria that live naturally in the gut.

The 4-week treatment also showed promise, with changes in liver gene expression that suggested the ginseng was helping prevent age-related liver problems, particularly a condition called cholestasis where bile doesn’t flow properly. The gut bacteria also showed positive changes after just 4 weeks.

The study found that the ginseng reduced the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae bacteria, which are considered opportunistic (meaning they can cause problems when conditions are right). At the same time, it increased Muribaculaceae bacteria, which are considered beneficial commensals (bacteria that live with us without causing harm). These changes in bacterial balance suggest the ginseng creates a healthier environment in the digestive system

Red ginseng has been studied for many years and is known to have anti-aging properties. This research builds on that knowledge by testing a new version of red ginseng that’s been specially processed with enzymes (called bioconverted red ginseng). The findings align with previous research showing that ginseng can affect blood sugar control and gut bacteria, but this study provides more detailed information about exactly how these changes happen at the genetic level

The biggest limitation is that all testing was done in mice, not humans. Mice age differently than people and may respond differently to treatments. The study used relatively small numbers of mice per group, which means results might not hold up in larger studies. The research was conducted in a laboratory setting with controlled conditions, which is very different from real life where people eat varied diets and have different lifestyles. We don’t know yet if the same benefits would occur in humans or at what dose. The study also didn’t test how long benefits might last after stopping the ginseng

The Bottom Line

Based on this animal research, bioconverted red ginseng shows promise as a potential anti-aging supplement for blood sugar control and liver health. However, confidence in recommending this for humans is currently LOW because this is only animal research. Before anyone should consider using this, we need human clinical trials to confirm safety and effectiveness. If you’re interested in this supplement, discuss it with your doctor first, especially if you take blood sugar medications or have liver conditions

This research is most relevant to people interested in anti-aging supplements and those concerned about blood sugar control as they age. Researchers studying aging, gut health, and metabolic disease should pay attention to these findings. People with diabetes or prediabetes might eventually benefit, but should NOT change their current treatment based on this animal study alone. People taking blood thinners or certain medications should be cautious, as ginseng can interact with medications

In the mouse studies, beneficial changes appeared after 4 weeks, with more significant improvements after 14 weeks. If similar effects occurred in humans, you might expect to see changes over weeks to months, not days. However, this is purely speculative based on animal data

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If you were to use bioconverted red ginseng (after consulting your doctor), track fasting blood sugar levels weekly and energy levels daily using a simple 1-10 scale. Also note any digestive changes like bloating or regularity
  • The practical change would be taking a consistent daily dose of bioconverted red ginseng supplement at the same time each day, ideally with food. Pair this with consistent meal timing and moderate exercise to maximize any potential blood sugar benefits
  • Long-term tracking would involve monthly fasting blood sugar measurements (if you have a way to test), quarterly check-ins with your doctor about energy and overall health, and keeping a simple journal of digestive health and how you feel. This would help identify if the supplement is actually making a difference for you personally

This research was conducted in mice and has not been tested in humans. The findings are preliminary and should not be used to make medical decisions. Bioconverted red ginseng is not approved by the FDA as a treatment for any condition. If you have diabetes, prediabetes, liver disease, or take any medications (especially blood thinners, blood sugar medications, or immunosuppressants), consult your doctor before using any ginseng product, as it may interact with medications or affect your condition. This summary is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement