Interaction of Saponin of Bupleuri Radix with Ginseng Saponin : Solubilization of Saikosaponin-a with Chikusetsusaponin V (=Ginsenoside-Ro)

Abstract

The possible presence of a solubilizing substance for saikosaponin-a, which is sparingly soluble in water, was investigated in Ginseng which is sometimes co-prescribed in decoctions of oriental traditional medicines. It was found that the water solubility of saikosaponin-a was not influenced in the presence of dammarane saponins but was remarkably increased in the presence of chikusetsusaponin V (=ginsenoside-Ro), a bisdesmoside of oleanolic acid. The solubilizing activity of chikusetsusaponin V was estimated by determining the surface tension of aqueous solutions. No influence of chikusetsusaponin V on the hemolytic activity of saikosaponin-a was observed.