Medicinal Effects of Ginkgo biloba in Animal Models

Abstract

Ginkgo biloba is a living fossil tree that is researched on extensively regarding its medicinal properties. The leaves have bioactive flavonol glycosides (~24%), and terpene lactones (~6%) (e.g. ginkgolides, bilobalide) (1), which are thought to mediate its action. The therapeutic value of Ginkgo has been investigated in animal studies in different body systems. Key findings include: Cognitive and Neurological: An enhanced memory and synaptic plasticity of rodents with neurodegeneration or injury (2, 3). Cardiovascular: Ischemia-reperfusion injury and hypertrophy protection, enhanced autonomic balance, and hemodynamics (1, 4). Antioxidant: Decrease in oxidative stress indicators and boosting antioxidant enzymes in the brain and heart tissues (1, 5). Anti-inflammatory: antiregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune activation in colitis and brain inflammatory model (6, 7). Safety: In animal models, high dosage can cause adverse effects (e.g. gastrointestinal upset, seizures, cardiovascular depression) and increase in interaction with other drugs (7, 8). These results are explained further below and in-text citations of peer-reviewed publications are provided.