Ginkgo Biloba - NutraPedia

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Ginkgo Biloba Overview

1) Conditions Studied

Ginkgo biloba has been studied for various conditions, including:

  • Cognitive disorders and memory improvement
  • Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Peripheral artery disease
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (eye health)

2) Efficacy in Treating Conditions

Research on the effectiveness of Ginkgo biloba in treating these conditions has produced mixed results. While some studies suggest potential benefits, others have found no significant effects. For example, in the case of cognitive disorders and dementia, some evidence points to slight improvements in cognitive function, whereas other studies have not confirmed these findings.

3) Health Benefits

The health benefits attributed to Ginkgo biloba include:

  • Potential improvement in brain function and memory
  • Possible positive effects on anxiety and depression
  • Antioxidant properties
  • Support for eye health and possible reduction in the rate of progression for age-related eye diseases
  • Improvement in blood flow and circulation

4) Downsides

Despite its potential benefits, Ginkgo biloba may have downsides, including:

  • Interaction with medications such as anticoagulants, which can increase the risk of bleeding
  • Possible side effects like headache, dizziness, heart palpitations, and stomach upset
  • Allergic reactions, especially in individuals allergic to plants in the Ginkgoaceae family
  • Insufficient evidence for its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using Ginkgo biloba, especially for individuals with medical conditions or those taking prescription medications.

5) Genetic Variations

Research on the relationship between genetic variations and the effects of Ginkgo biloba is still in its infancy. There is not enough conclusive evidence to determine whether it is particularly beneficial or harmful for specific genetic variations. As research evolves, more information may become available regarding its interaction with individual genetic profiles.

Summary of Research on Ginkgo Biloba Extract

Effectiveness in Dementia Treatment

A meta-analysis of 13 studies with 2381 patients showed that a daily dose of 240 mg Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) is effective and safe for treating dementia, especially for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) based on the Syndrome Kurztest (SKT) scores.

Memory Functions in Middle-Aged Individuals

A study with 188 subjects aged 45-56 revealed that 240 mg of EGb 761 daily for six weeks significantly improved self-initiated information recall, but did not enhance performance in simpler recognition tasks.

Cognitive Function in Older Adults

In a randomized trial with 262 cognitively intact volunteers over 60, 180 mg/day of EGb 761 for six weeks improved delayed recall and recognition of auditory-verbal and visual material. Participants also reported subjective improvements in memory abilities.

Impact on Healthy Individuals Under 60

A systematic review updated to January 2007 found no convincing evidence that Ginkgo biloba extracts enhance cognitive function in healthy individuals under 60.

Toxicity Concerns

Despite its widespread use, Ginkgo biloba has potential toxic and carcinogenic effects. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies Ginkgo extract as a possible human carcinogen due to increased liver cancer incidence in mice.

Effects on Hemostasis and Bleeding Risk

An analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials found that Ginkgo biloba extract therapy does not increase the risk of bleeding based on hemostasis parameters.

Carcinogenic Potential in Animal Studies

National Toxicology Program studies indicate carcinogenic potential in rats and mice, with liver and thyroid cancer occurrences, highlighting the need for evaluating risks associated with Ginkgo biloba consumption.

Increases in Cerebral Blood Flow

A study demonstrated that Ginkgo biloba intake led to a mild increase in cerebral blood flow among normal elderly individuals.

Potential for Cognitive Disorders

Ginkgo biloba extract is commonly used to enhance memory and cognitive function in aging populations, and further research is needed to assess its effectiveness in preventing and treating dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.

References:


  1. Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract for the treatment of dementia
  2. Specific memory effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in middle-aged healthy volunteers
  3. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in a sample of cognitively intact older adults: neuropsychological findings
  4. Ginkgo biloba is not a smart drug: an updated systematic review of randomised clinical trials testing the nootropic effects of G. biloba extracts in healthy people
  5. Review of Ginkgo biloba-induced toxicity, from experimental studies to human case reports
  6. Is there a risk of bleeding associated with standardized Ginkgo biloba extract therapy? A systematic review and meta-analysis
  7. Toxicity and carcinogenicity studies of Ginkgo biloba extract in rat and mouse: liver, thyroid, and nose are targets
  8. Effects of Ginkgo biloba on cerebral blood flow assessed by quantitative MR perfusion imaging: a pilot study
  9. Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Effect of Ginkgo biloba Extract Against AD and Other Neurological Disorders


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