DNA protective effect of ginseng and the antagonistic effect of Chinese turnip : a preliminary study

Authors

Yim Tong Savio Szeto, Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (Shatin), Vocational Training CouncilFollow
Julia Wai Ming Wong, Kwong Wah Hospital
Shirley Ching Yee Wong, Kwong Wah Hospital
Sok Cheon Pak, Charles Sturt University
Iris F.F. Benzie, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2011

Keywords

Antioxidant, Comet assay, DNA, Ginseng, Turnip

DOI

10.1007/s11130-011-0209-5

Abstract

The genoprotective effect of American and Asian ginseng on human lymphocytic DNA was studied. Using the comet assay, aqueous extracts of both types of ginseng were shown to diminish hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA damage. In contrast, and in accordance with traditional Chinese medicine beliefs, addition of the juice from Chinese turnip counteracted the beneficial effect of ginseng. Results showed that incubating ginseng along with turnip juice abolished the DNA protective effect of both American and Asian ginseng. Although the exact mechanism has not been elucidated, the counteracting effect of turnip on ginseng seems unlikely to be mediated by enzymatic action as the effect was seen with boiled as well as unboiled turnip extract.

Source Publication

Plant Foods for Human Nutrition

Volume Number

66

Issue Number

2

ISSN

0921-9668

First Page

97

Last Page

100

Recommended Citation

Szeto, Y.,Wong, J.,Wong, S.,Pak, S.,& Benzie, I. (2011). DNA protective effect of ginseng and the antagonistic effect of Chinese turnip : a preliminary study. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 66 (2), 97-100. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11130-011-0209-5