Ginsenoside Rb3 (G-Rb3) is one of the primary active compounds isolated from Panax ginseng Meyer, which belongs to protopanaxadiol ginsenosides (PPD). Based on the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of ginsenosides, the pentose structure of G-Rb3 limited itself to possess more pharmacological activity to a certain extent. However, pharmacokinetics show that G-Rb3 is processed through deglycosylation in the intestinal tract and converted into more active rare saponins, such as Compound K, F2, etc. A series of studies focused on neuroprotection and the cardiovascular system demonstrating its therapeutic potentials, which was achieved by diminishing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Therefore, more systematic and in-depth studies are needed to complete the pharmaceutical value and to promote its clinical applications. This article highlights the multiple pharmacological effects and mechanisms of G-Rb3 and prospects for its development.
List of Abbreviations AUC:area under the plasma concentration vs. time curve; MRT: mean residence time; T max , t 1/2 : the elimination half-life.