Profiles of Panax vietnamensis Cultivated in Son La Mountain, Vietnam

Abstract

This study examined the phytochemical composition and environmental adaptation of Panax vietnamensis cultivated in Son La, a non-native highland region. Roots aged 3–5 years were analyzed for saponins and amino acids. Grown above 1600m in humus-rich soils under > 70% forest canopy, the plants showed high levels of majonoside R2 (6.10%), Rg1 (2.85%), and Rb1 (0.74%), with total saponins of 6.61–9.82% (w/w). Amino acid content increased with age, reaching ∼ 3.424 mg/100 g in 5-year-old roots. These results indicate that forest-based cultivation in Son La preserves the phytochemical quality of P. vietnamensis and supports its sustainable expansion beyond native habitats.