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.