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Ginkgo biloba--an appraisal
A-K Dubey1, P-R Shankar, D Upadhyaya
1Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal.
Kathmandu University Medical Journal (KUMJ)
|January 10, 2006
Summary
Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) shows promise for cognitive health, cardiovascular issues, and neuroprotection due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its efficacy for tinnitus and acute mountain sickness is not supported, and potential drug interactions require further study.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Ginkgo biloba has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine.
- A standardized extract, EGb 761, contains active compounds like flavonol glycosides and terpene lactones.
- These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pharmacological actions and therapeutic potential of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761).
- To evaluate its efficacy in various conditions, including cognitive impairment, cardiovascular diseases, and neuroprotection.
- To identify potential adverse effects and drug interactions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761).
- Analysis of studies investigating its antioxidant, anti-platelet, blood flow-enhancing, and neuroprotective effects.
- Examination of clinical trials assessing its efficacy in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, cognitive impairment, and peripheral vascular diseases.
Main Results:
- EGb 761 scavenges free radicals, reduces platelet aggregation, increases blood flow, and stimulates nitric oxide release.
- It shows benefits in aging, mild cognitive impairment, cerebral impairment, and peripheral vascular diseases.
- Bilobalide demonstrates neuroprotective effects against excitotoxicity.
- Potential roles in age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma are suggested.
- Anticancer actions are linked to antioxidant, anti-angiogenic, and gene regulatory effects.
- EGb 761 increased diltiazem bioavailability and protected against certain drug toxicities in animals.
- No benefit was found for tinnitus or acute mountain sickness.
- Potential for drug interactions due to enzyme inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) exhibits diverse pharmacological activities with potential therapeutic applications in cognitive and cardiovascular health.
- Further research is necessary to confirm its efficacy and fully understand its safety profile and drug interaction potential.