Ginsenosides are the main pharmacologically active constituents of ginseng which have been used in East Asian countries for centuries to modulate blood pressure

metabolism and immune function. Following the technological advances in isolation

purification and mass production

their mechanisms of action are gradually elucidated

providing solid basis for clinical applications. Ginseng extracts (total ginsenosides) and ginsenoside Rg3

CK

Rd have been marketed or entered clinical trials as drugs or dietary supplements. Despite the proven safety and efficacy of some ginsenosides

their applications are hindered by inferior pharmacokinetics such as low solubility

poor membrane permeability and metabolic instability. Nanoparticle formulation of drugs and implantable drug depots are effective strategies to improve the pharmacokinetics of therapeutic agents by enhancing solubility

providing protection

facilitating intracellular transport

and enabling sustained and controlled release. This mini-review summarizes the recent advances in systemic delivery of ginsenosides using liposomes

micelles

albumin-based nanoparticles

and inorganic nanoparticles

as well as local delivery of ginsenosides by electronspun fibrous membranes and hydrogels.