RG3
Ginsenoside Rg3 — a bioactive compound derived from Panax ginseng. While not a peptide, it is frequently offered alongside peptide therapies in regenerative medicine clinics for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. One of the most active compounds in ginseng, with research demonstrating effects on blood vessel formation, immune cell activation, and cancer cell death.
Dosage
20-60 mg oral 1-2x daily
Dosages shown are for research reference only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Administration
Oral capsule or injectable (compounding)
Shop Research-Grade Peptides
99%+ purity · US-based · third-party lab tested
Getting Started — Here's What You'll Need
Effects
Anti-Inflammatory
NF-kappaB and MAPK pathway inhibition reduces broad inflammatory signaling.
Anti-Angiogenic
Suppresses VEGF expression — studied for tumor growth inhibition.
Immune Enhancement
Increases NK cell activity and promotes dendritic cell maturation.
Mechanism of Action
Ginsenoside Rg3 is a dammarane-type triterpene saponin found in Panax ginseng, with significantly higher concentrations in red (steamed) ginseng compared to white (dried) ginseng, as the steaming process converts other ginsenosides into Rg3 through sugar moiety deglycosylation. It exists as two stereoisomers: 20(S)-Rg3 and 20(R)-Rg3, which have overlapping but distinct biological activities.
Rg3's anti-inflammatory mechanism centers on inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. It prevents phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα, keeping the NF-κB p65/p50 complex sequestered in the cytoplasm and blocking transcription of pro-inflammatory genes including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS. This broad anti-inflammatory effect is complemented by modulation of the MAPK pathways (ERK, JNK, p38), further reducing inflammatory mediator production.
The anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor properties involve multiple mechanisms. Rg3 suppresses VEGF expression and VEGF receptor signaling (VEGFR2/KDR), inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels that tumors require for growth beyond a few millimeters (tumor angiogenesis). It modulates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway — inhibiting Akt phosphorylation to reduce cell survival signaling and promote apoptosis in cancer cells. It enhances innate immune surveillance by increasing NK cell cytotoxic activity and promoting dendritic cell maturation and antigen presentation, improving the immune system's ability to detect and eliminate abnormal cells. Rg3 also inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) — the process by which cancer cells acquire migratory and invasive properties for metastasis — by modulating TGF-β signaling and maintaining E-cadherin expression. The combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, pro-apoptotic, and immune-enhancing properties has led to Rg3's approval as a cancer adjunct therapy in China and South Korea, though it is not recognized as a drug in Western regulatory frameworks.
Regulatory Status
Available as a dietary supplement (ginseng extract). Specific Rg3 products approved in China and South Korea for cancer adjunct therapy. Not FDA approved as a drug.
Risks & Safety
Common
stomach discomfort, insomnia, headache, mild diarrhea.
Serious
interactions with blood thinners (increases bleeding risk), interactions with diabetes medications (lowers blood sugar), estrogenic activity reported for some ginsenoside forms.
Rare
allergic reactions, liver enzyme elevation with high-dose use. Low oral bioavailability limits systemic exposure.
Compare RG3 With
Research Papers
30Published: December 13, 2025
AI Summary
PEGylated niosomes loaded with ginsenoside Rg3 reduced brain vessel damage and preserved the blood-brain barrier in an Alzheimer's model. The formulation may improve Rg3 delivery for neurodegenerative disease.
Published: November 26, 2025
AI Summary
Combining 20(R)-Rg3 with stem cells improved blood sugar, insulin sensitivity, and organ function in diabetic mice more than stem cells alone. The effect was linked to PI3K/Akt signaling.
Published: January 14, 2026
AI Summary
A delivery system using Rg3, paclitaxel, and siRNA against survivin improved tumor targeting and apoptosis in melanoma. Rg3 acted as both a carrier and an anti-migration agent.
Published: November 24, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: February 23, 2026
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: December 8, 2025
AI Summary
20(R)-Rg3 reduced brain inflammation and protected neurons after stroke by blocking the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. It may be useful for ischemic stroke.
Published: September 7, 2025
AI Summary
Tongxinluo, which contains Rg3, protected the heart from ischemia-reperfusion injury by limiting endothelial cell pyroptosis via the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway.
Published: August 26, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: September 24, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: July 31, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: June 18, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: July 24, 2025
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: July 25, 2025
AI Summary
Rg3-based lipid nanoparticles tagged tumor cells with antigens and boosted T cell responses. The approach may help treat tumors that evade immunity.
Published: June 4, 2025
AI Summary
Rg3 reduced synergistic cytokine production in macrophages stimulated by TLR2 and TLR3. NF-κB and IRF3 were identified as targets for its anti-cytokine synergy activity.
Published: November 19, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: March 26, 2025
AI Summary
Rg3 limited osteoporosis by reducing KPNA2 and blocking the NF-κB pathway in osteoclasts. KPNA2 may be a target for bone-protective drugs.
Published: January 2, 2025
AI Summary
Rg3 eased PTSD symptoms in mice by shifting microglia toward an M2 phenotype via FGFR1. It may be a candidate for PTSD treatment.
Published: November 3, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: October 18, 2024
AI Summary
Rg3 raised cardiolipin levels via GRB2 and TRKA, improving mitochondrial function and protecting dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's models. It may help prevent or treat PD.
Published: July 17, 2024
AI Summary
Black ginseng and its fractions improved heart failure in rats by affecting hormones and gut microbes. Rg3 and related rare ginsenosides were among the active components.
Published: June 25, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: August 5, 2024
AI Summary
PEGylated liposomes loaded with Rg3 improved blood sugar, insulin sensitivity, and glucose tolerance in diabetic mice. The formulation may help treat type 2 diabetes.
Published: May 19, 2024
AI Summary
A new bacterium was found to convert ginseng saponins into Rg3 and related compounds. The work may support production of rare ginsenosides.
Published: April 30, 2024
AI Summary
Rg3 and related ginsenosides lowered amyloid beta by enhancing capacitative calcium entry. Modulating this pathway may be a new strategy for Alzheimer's.
Published: June 27, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: March 31, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: January 19, 2024
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: February 11, 2024
AI Summary
Rg3 and Rg5 together slowed lung cancer growth and metastasis by blocking PI3K/Akt/mTOR and EGFR/VEGF. The combo was more effective than either alone.
Published: March 20, 2024
AI Summary
20(R)-Rg3 reduced mitochondrial oxidative stress in stroke models via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. The effect protected neurons and improved outcomes.
Published: November 23, 2023
AI Summary
Rg3 protected the heart in diabetic mice by binding PPAR-γ and boosting adiponectin signaling. It may help treat diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RG3?
Ginsenoside Rg3 — a bioactive compound derived from Panax ginseng. While not a peptide, it is frequently offered alongside peptide therapies in regenerative medicine clinics for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. One of the most active compounds in ginseng, with research demonstrating effects on blood vessel formation, immune cell activation, and cancer cell death.
What is RG3 used for?
Ginsenoside Rg3 — a bioactive compound derived from Panax ginseng. While not a peptide, it is frequently offered alongside peptide therapies in regenerative medicine clinics for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. One of the most active compounds in ginseng, with research demonstrating effects on blood vessel formation, immune cell activation, and cancer cell death.
What is the dosage for RG3?
Oral: 20-60 mg once or twice daily. Injectable (compounding): varies by formulation. Some protocols combine with immune-modulating peptides (Thymosin Alpha-1, Thymalin). Typically cycled 4-8 weeks.
What are the side effects of RG3?
Common: stomach discomfort, insomnia, headache, mild diarrhea. Serious: interactions with blood thinners (increases bleeding risk), interactions with diabetes medications (lowers blood sugar), estrogenic activity reported for some ginsenoside forms. Rare: allergic reactions, liver enzyme elevation with high-dose use. Low oral bioavailability limits systemic exposure.
How does RG3 work?
Ginsenoside Rg3 is a dammarane-type triterpene saponin found in Panax ginseng, with significantly higher concentrations in red (steamed) ginseng compared to white (dried) ginseng, as the steaming process converts other ginsenosides into Rg3 through sugar moiety deglycosylation. It exists as two stereoisomers: 20(S)-Rg3 and 20(R)-Rg3, which have overlapping but distinct biological activities. Rg3's anti-inflammatory mechanism centers on inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. It prevents phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα, keeping the NF-κB p65/p50 complex sequestered in the cytoplasm and blocking transcription of pro-inflammatory genes including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS. This broad anti-inflammatory effect is complemented by modulation of the MAPK pathways (ERK, JNK, p38), further reducing inflammatory mediator production. The anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor properties involve multiple mechanisms. Rg3 suppresses VEGF expression and VEGF receptor signaling (VEGFR2/KDR), inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels that tumors require for growth beyond a few millimeters (tumor angiogenesis). It modulates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway — inhibiting Akt phosphorylation to reduce cell survival signaling and promote apoptosis in cancer cells. It enhances innate immune surveillance by increasing NK cell cytotoxic activity and promoting dendritic cell maturation and antigen presentation, improving the immune system's ability to detect and eliminate abnormal cells. Rg3 also inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) — the process by which cancer cells acquire migratory and invasive properties for metastasis — by modulating TGF-β signaling and maintaining E-cadherin expression. The combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, pro-apoptotic, and immune-enhancing properties has led to Rg3's approval as a cancer adjunct therapy in China and South Korea, though it is not recognized as a drug in Western regulatory frameworks.
How is RG3 administered?
RG3 is administered via oral capsule or injectable (compounding).
What is the half-life of RG3?
The half-life of RG3 is 18-36 hours (oral bioavailability is low, approximately 2-5%).
Is RG3 legal?
Available as a dietary supplement (ginseng extract). Specific Rg3 products approved in China and South Korea for cancer adjunct therapy. Not FDA approved as a drug.
Related Peptides
AEDG Peptide
A tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) identical to Epithalon's core active sequence — effectively the same compound. Studied for telomerase activation and pineal gland regulation, promoting melatonin production and potentially slowing cellular aging through telomere maintenance. Part of the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family developed in St. Petersburg.
CJC-1295 (no DAC)
One of the most popular growth hormone peptides, often called Mod GRF 1-29. Instead of injecting growth hormone directly, this tells your pituitary gland to release more of its own GH naturally. This is considered healthier than injecting GH directly because your body keeps its normal feedback systems intact. Usually combined with Ipamorelin for much stronger effects — the two work together better than either alone.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
The most commonly prescribed peptide combination in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. Pairs the GHRH analogue CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) with the selective ghrelin-mimetic Ipamorelin for synergistic, pulsatile growth hormone release. Exploits two complementary signaling pathways — cAMP (GHRH) and calcium/PLC (ghrelin receptor) — to amplify GH pulses while maintaining minimal side effects.
CJC-1295 with DAC
The long-acting version of CJC-1295. After injection it attaches to a protein in your blood (albumin), which keeps it active for nearly a week instead of just 30 minutes. This means you only need to inject once a week. The trade-off is that it keeps growth hormone elevated constantly rather than in natural pulses, which some practitioners consider less ideal for your body. More convenient but potentially less natural than the no-DAC version.