Effects of ginsenosides on electroencephalogram power spectra in rats

Aim: To investigate the effects of Ginsenosides (GS) on EEG power wave spectra of spontaneous sleep. Method: Adult SD rats were randomly divided into the control, GS 10 and 100 mg/kg groups. After recovery from operation, rats were orally administered GS 10 and 100 mg/kg or water once per day for 6 days. On day 1 and 6 of GS administration, Polygraphic signs of undisturbed sleep-wake activities were recorded for 12h after GS administration. Results: On GS administration day 1, 10 and 100 mg/kg GS enhanced θ power of NREM and wakefulness but reduced θ power of wakefulness and α power during sleep and wakefulness, 10 and 100mg/kg GS lowered θ power of NREM and REM stage, respectively. After 6 days of GS administration, 10 and 100mg/kg GS enhanced δ power during NREM and wakefulness but reduced θ power of wakefulness and α power during sleep and wake state, 10 mg/kg GS also lowered θ power of NREM. The increase of δ power in all stages, the decrease of α power in NREM and REM sleep and the decrease of α power during NREM and wakefulness were observed in 10mg/kg group; the decrease of θ power during NREM sleep and of α power during wakefulness and the increase of δ power in wakefulness shown in 100mg/kg group. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that GS can regulate extensively cortical EEG power spectra in rats.