Ginseng and its immuno-boosting properties: effects on fish immunity, mechanisms of action, and challenges in aquaculture
Modern aquaculture is challenged by disease outbreaks caused by environmental stress and immune suppression in fish. The indiscriminate use of antibiotics has accelerated antimicrobial resistance and has demanded urgent need of natural and sustainable alternatives to enhance fish health. The present review is devoted to ginseng, a plant of the genus Panax , whose rich content of ginsenosides has well-documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of ginseng in modulating the immune system of fish, highlighting the regulation of key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt, which results in balanced cytokine production, augmented antioxidant activity, and improved immune cell function. Evidence from trials in species such as tilapia, trout, and carp demonstrates that dietary supplementation with ginseng can increase resistance to bacterial pathogens and reduce dependency on antibiotics. However, challenges remain regarding dosage optimization, extract standardization, and evaluation of long-term effects. Overall, ginseng represents a promising natural immunostimulant for sustainable aquaculture, but further research is needed to establish standardized and effective application protocols.