Effects of Two Rg3-Enriched Korean Ginseng Preparations on Blood Pressure in Adults with Early-Stage Hypertension: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: Ginsenoside Rg3, a bioactive component of processed Korean ginseng, has demonstrated vasodilatory and blood pressure-lowering effects; however, clinical evidence on the long-term effects of Rg3-enriched ginseng preparations remains limited. This study evaluated the effects of two differently processed Rg3-enriched Korean ginseng preparations on blood pressure in adults with early-stage hypertension. Methods: In this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 90 adults were randomly assigned to vitamin C-treated white ginseng (VTWG), enzyme-treated red ginseng (ETRG), or placebo (n = 30 per group). Both interventions provided approximately 40 mg/day of Rg3. Changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were primary outcomes. Results: From baseline to week 12, SBP decreased by 7.27 ± 6.15 mmHg in the VTWG group and 9.86 ± 6.47 mmHg in the ETRG group, whereas it increased by 5.03 ± 6.52 mmHg in the placebo group (both adjusted p < 0.0001 vs. placebo). DBP decreased by 5.27 ± 5.58 and 6.32 ± 5.55 mmHg in the VTWG and ETRG groups, respectively, compared with a decrease of 0.90 ± 6.31 mmHg in the placebo group (adjusted p = 0.006, 0.0006, respectively). MAP also decreased significantly in both intervention groups compared with placebo (both adjusted p < 0.0001), whereas NO changes differed significantly only between ETRG and placebo (adjusted p = 0.017). No clinically meaningful safety concerns were identified. Conclusions: Twelve-week supplementation with either Rg3-enriched Korean ginseng preparation significantly reduced blood pressure compared with placebo, suggesting potential benefits for blood pressure management in adults with early-stage hypertension.