Optimization for Preparation of Lemon-catalyzed Ginsenoside Rg3 by Response Surface Method

Abstract Objective Ginsenoside Rg 3 was prepared by converting protopanaxadiol (PPD)-type saponins using lemon juice as the catalyst. Methods Preparation of ginsenoside Rg3 was optimized by response surface method (RSM) based on a four-factor and five-level central composite design. Results The optimal yield of ginsenoside Rg 3 was predicted to be 75.98% in the combination of the factors (PPD-type saponins concentration of 23.6 mg/mL, lemon juice concentration of 97.6% at 85.7 °C for 130.0 min) through the canonical analysis and ridge analysis with maximum responses. Under the optimum conditions, the actual yield of ginsenoside Rg3 was 75.57%. Conclusion RSM is effective to optimize the preparation of ginsenoside Rg 3 by lemon-catalyzed PPD-type saponins. The achievement for the preparation of ginsenoside Rg3 would promote the development of health-care production.