The present invention relates to the methods of solid-phase peptide synthesis or recombinant production of ginsentide or ginsentide-like peptides or salts thereof. Further provided are uses of the ginsentide or ginsentide-like peptides or salts thereof as α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists and vasorelaxants, nitric oxide-boosting agents, anti-thrombotic agents, anti-atherosclerotic agents, as protective agents against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, anti-ageing and adaptogenic agents, nutraceuticals, health supplements, or cosmetic ingredients.