Ginkgold
Also known as: Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree, Ginkgold, GBE, Ginkgo biloba extract
Overview
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree, an ancient tree species. It is widely recognized as a botanical supplement primarily used for its cognitive enhancing, neuroprotective, and circulatory benefits. Ginkgold appears to be a branded formulation of GBE. Research on GBE is extensive, encompassing numerous randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses that investigate its effects on conditions such as dementia, cognitive decline, and depression. While the quality of evidence varies, several meta-analyses indicate statistically significant, albeit modest, benefits in certain areas, though methodological limitations and heterogeneity in studies are noted.
Benefits
GBE offers several evidence-based benefits. For cognitive function and dementia, meta-analyses show that GBE, when combined with donepezil, significantly improves clinical effectiveness in dementia patients compared to donepezil alone, with a risk ratio of 1.23 (95% CI 1.13–1.34) over 3 to 9 months, particularly in cognitive scores like MMSE. In depression, GBE supplementation has been linked to improved depression scales and biomarkers such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and serotonin (5-HT), showing a clinical efficacy risk ratio of 1.22 (95% CI 1.11–1.34) without increasing adverse events. GBE has also shown potential in reducing positive symptoms and improving cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia and dementia, although high heterogeneity in studies warrants cautious interpretation. Preliminary, less conclusive evidence suggests GBE may also have effects on vitiligo and macular degeneration.
How it works
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) exerts its effects through active compounds including flavonoids and terpenoids (ginkgolides and bilobalide). These compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. GBE modulates various neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine, which are crucial for mood and cognitive function. It also enhances cerebral blood flow, thereby improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, and protects against oxidative stress. Furthermore, GBE is known to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein vital for neuronal survival, growth, and synaptic plasticity. The absorption and bioavailability of GBE are influenced by its standardization and specific formulation.
Side effects
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is generally well tolerated, with meta-analyses indicating no significant increase in adverse events compared to placebo. Common side effects are rare, occurring in less than 5% of users, and typically include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, and occasional allergic reactions. Historically, there have been concerns regarding a potential bleeding risk due to GBE's antiplatelet effects; however, systematic reviews have not found significant changes in coagulation parameters in healthy individuals. Despite this, caution is advised, especially for individuals with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery, and medical supervision is recommended. GBE can interact with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, potentially increasing their effects. Contraindications include known bleeding disorders and pre-surgical use without consulting a healthcare professional.
Dosage
Clinical studies typically utilize standardized Ginkgo biloba extracts, such as EGb 761, at daily doses ranging from 120 mg to 240 mg. For cognitive benefits, the minimum effective dose appears to be around 120 mg per day. An optimal dosing regimen is often cited as 240 mg per day, usually divided into two separate doses. Taking GBE with meals may enhance its absorption. It is crucial to use standardized extracts that specify their content of active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpene lactones, to ensure consistent potency and efficacy. Upper limits and safety thresholds are generally considered to be well above typical therapeutic doses, but adherence to recommended dosages is advised.
FAQs
Is Ginkgold effective for dementia?
Evidence suggests modest cognitive improvement when Ginkgo biloba extract is combined with donepezil over several months, particularly in cognitive scores like MMSE.
Is Ginkgold safe to use?
Ginkgold (GBE) is generally considered safe with a low incidence of side effects. No significant increase in bleeding risk has been found in healthy populations.
How long does it take to see effects from Ginkgold?
Benefits from Ginkgold typically become noticeable after consistent use for 3 months or longer, as observed in clinical studies.
Can Ginkgold be used for depression?
Some evidence supports the adjunctive use of Ginkgo biloba extract in depression, showing improved mood scales and beneficial changes in biomarkers like BDNF.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1124710/full – This meta-analysis of 6 RCTs involving 509 dementia patients found that GBE combined with donepezil significantly improved clinical effectiveness compared to donepezil alone (RR=1.23, p<0.00001) over 3-9 months. The study noted low heterogeneity and good control groups, indicating high quality and consistent results for cognitive improvement in dementia.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1364030/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis on depression concluded that GBE improved depression scales and increased biomarkers such as BDNF and serotonin (5-HT). It also reported no increase in adverse events. The study was assessed as moderate to high quality, despite some moderate heterogeneity in certain outcomes.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3679686/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated GBE's effects on patients with schizophrenia and dementia. It found that GBE reduced positive symptoms and improved cognition, though high heterogeneity and some non-significant cognitive measures were noted. The study's quality was moderate, suggesting cautious interpretation due to the inclusion of older trials and high variability.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/ – This source provides an overview of Ginkgo biloba's safety profile, noting that it is generally well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. It addresses concerns about bleeding risk, stating that systematic reviews have not found significant changes in coagulation parameters, but advises caution with anticoagulants and in pre-surgical contexts.
