Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba L. (family: Ginkgoaceae) is a deciduous tree growing 30-40 m high. In terms of evolutionary history, it is one of the oldest plant species on earth and represents the link between ferns and conifers. A special feature are the very characteristic fan-shaped, broad leaves. Ripe ginkgo seeds are used as food. The seeds contain 37.8% carbohydrates, 4.3% proteins and 1.7% fat.

see also under Ginkgonis folium

The extracts contain about 0.5% to 1.8% flavonoids (flavonoids and flavonol glycosides, acylated flavonol glycosides, biflavonoids, flavan-3-ols and proanthocyanidins). Furthermore, terpenes 0.03% to 0.25%, the sesquiterpene bilobalide as well as polyprenols and steroids are found.

The ginkgo extracts have radical scavenging properties. Furthermore, they inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF) and have immunomodulating effects.

Improvement of microcirculation, neuroprotection, mitochondrial protection, improvement of cerebral energy metabolism, protection against ischemic consequences, reduction of neurotransmitter deficits, memory improvement, increase of learning ability and stress tolerance, improvement of vestibular vertigo.

Some placebo-controlled studies have demonstrated positive effects on low-progression vitiligo (Parsad D et al. 2003; see also Vitiligo). Dosage: 40mg 3x/day for 6 months).

Preparations from these extracts are used for the symptomatic treatment of brain-organically caused performance disorders (dementia syndromes) with the leading symptoms of memory and concentration disorders, depressive moods, dizziness, ringing in the ears and headaches as part of a therapeutic concept. Furthermore, they are used for the supportive treatment of peripheral arterial circulatory disorders, dizziness and tinnitus. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study with 52 vitiligo patients, 3 times 40 mg gingival extract were administered. 10 patients showed complete repigmentation after 6 months.

Duration of use: In case of brain disorders, treatment of at least 8 weeks is necessary. After a treatment period of 3 months it should be checked whether the therapy is still continued. An improvement of arterial circulatory disorders is expected after 6 weeks at the earliest (extension of the walking distance). In the case of circulatory disorders of the inner ear, e.g. dizziness, tinnitus, a treatment of more than 6 to 8 weeks does not bring any advantages.

Only extracts from the ginkgo leaves are used, which are produced according to special manufacturing processes. This involves an enrichment of the ingredients, which are considered to be the actual effective contents. Substances that can cause side effects are removed.

• Treatment of brain-organic performance disorders: 120-240 mg/day p.o. dry extract in 2 or 3 ED.
• For treatment of arterial circulatory disorders or circulatory disorders of the inner ear: 120-160 mg/day dry extract in 2 or 3 ED.

Simultaneous administration of anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents may influence their effect! Nifedipine - increased effect. Efavirenz ; possibly reduced plasma concentrations of efavirenz.

Gingium®, Tebonin® forte film-coated tablets (ED40mg), Tebonin® konzent® 240 mg, Gingipret film-coated tablets (ED 40mg); Ginkgopur film-coated tablets (ED40mg);

1. Basnyat B et al (2003) High-altitude illness. Lancet 361: 1967-1974
2. Cieza A et al. (2003) Ginkgo biloba works in healthy persons, too. Older people feel more mentally fit. MMW Fortschr Med 145: 51
3. Nash KM et al.(2015) Current Perspectives on the Beneficial Role of Ginkgo biloba in Neurological and Cerebrovascular Disorders. Integr Med Insights 10:1-9.
4. Parsad D et al (2003) Effectiveness of Gingko biloba in treated limited slowl spreading vitiligo. Clin Exp Dermatol 28: 285-287.
5. Schaffer DM et al (2003) Nonvitamin, nonmineral supplement use over a 12-month period by adult members of a large health maintenance organization. J Am Diet Assoc 103: 1500-1505.
6. Ströhle A et al (2015) Drug and Exercise Treatment of Alzheimer Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Effects on Cognition in Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 23:1234-1249.
7. Sun B et al (2003) Variation in Ginkgo biloba L. leaf characters across a climatic gradient in China. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 100: 7141-7146.
8. van Dongen M Ginkgo for elderly people with dementia and age-associated memory impairment: a randomized clinical trial. J Clin Epidemiol 56: 367-376
9. Zhou Z et al (2003) The missing link in Ginkgo evolution. Nature 423: 821-822
10. Wenigmann M. (2017) Phytotherapy medicinal drugs, phytopharmaceuticals, application. Urban & Fischer, pp. 112-114