In Vivo Effects of Ginseng Extract on Maternal and Offspring Development

Introduction Ginseng's bioactive components can cross the placental barrier and influence offspring through lactation; however, their effects on development remain unclear. Methods This study used specific pathogen-free (SPF) Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into four groups: control, 31.3 mg/kg·bw, 125 mg/kg·bw, and 500 mg/kg·bw. Ginseng extract was administered by gavage during gestation and lactation. Maternal body weight, offspring growth, developmental milestones, sensory-motor abilities, learning-memory performance, and tissue pathology were assessed. Results We found that female rats in the 500 mg/kg·bw group exhibited smoother, glossier fur from day 36 onward. Offspring in this group showed increased escape behavior and hyperactivity between postnatal days 5–11. Significant maternal weight loss occurred in the 125 mg/kg·bw and 500 mg/kg·bw groups. In the 500 mg/kg·bw group, female offspring exhibited delayed incisor eruption and temporary weight loss, which recovered post-weaning. Righting reflex times were shortened in the 31.3 mg/kg·bw group but prolonged in the 500 mg/kg·bw group. Female offspring in the 31.3 mg/kg·bw group displayed increased forelimb suspension time and greater running endurance. Male offspring in the 125 mg/kg·bw group demonstrated improved target quadrant latency and spatial exploration. Conclusion These results suggest that ginseng extract has dose-dependent and sex-specific effects on maternal physiology and offspring development.