Effects of Raphani Semen on anti-fatigue and pharmacokinetics of Panax ginseng

Abstract Objective To explain the phenomenon that Panax ginseng is not compatible with Raphani Semen based on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Methods The forced swimming time and biochemical parameters such as blood lactate (BLA), serum urea nitrogen (SUN), and hepatic glycogen (GLU) were determined for anti-fatigue experiment. The UPLC-MS/MS was used to analyze the pharmacokinetics of Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd after orally administration of P. ginseng and P. ginseng combined with Raphani Semen to rats. Pharmacokinetic differences of four ginsenosides between single uses of P. ginseng and combined with Raphani Semen were investigated. Results The results showed that Raphani Semen tended to significantly reduce the anti-fatigue activity of P. ginseng . Co-administration of P. ginseng and Raphani Semen had significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of the four ginsenosides in rats compared to that observed with P. ginseng extract alone. The AUC 0–12 h values of the four ginsenosides in PG group were higher than the corresponding values in the PR group. It can be inferred that Raphani Semen decreased the blood exposure of the four ginsenosides in rats when it combined with P. ginseng. Conclusion The anti-fatigue activity and pharmacokinetic results showed that Raphani Semen may reduce the pharmacological actions of P. ginseng .