Products
Ginkgo extract is commercially available in the form of capsules, film-coated tablets, and as drops (e.g., Symfona, Tebokan, Tebofortin, Rezirkane), among others. In addition, dried ginkgo leaves are also available. It is recommended to use standardized and refined special extracts, as these contain the relevant ingredients and are free from undesirable substances, especially the ginkgolic acids (e.g. EGb761, LI 1370). Ginkgo tea should not be ingested.
Stem plant
Ginkgo tree L. of the Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family) is native to Asia and is planted in Europe as an ornamental tree. It is dioecious, i.e. there is a male and a female specimen. Since the fruits of the female plant release unpleasant odors (e.g. butyric acid), male trees are mainly planted. The ginkgo tree is called a living fossil because it has been around for many millions of years and it is the last surviving representative of its plant order, the Ginkgoales. The trees can grow 40 meters high and over 1000 years old.
Medicinal drug
Ginkgo leaves (Ginkgo folium) are used as a medicinal raw material, the whole or crushed dried leaves of L. The pharmacopoeia requires a minimum content of flavonoids. In traditional Chinese medicine, the ginkgo seeds are also used (Ginkgo semen, Bai Guo). Solvents such as acetone–water or ethanol are used to prepare dry or liquid extracts of the leaves, respectively.
Ingredients
The relevant ingredients of ginkgo leaves include:
- Flavonoids
- Isoprenoids (terpentrilactones): bilobalide (sesquiterpene lactone), ginkgolides (diterpenes).
- Organic acids, ginkgolic acids
Effects
Ginkgo extracts (ATC N06DX02) have neuroprotective, antioxidant, antiplatelet, and circulatory properties. They improve blood flow in the area of small vessels (microcirculation) and increase oxygen supply to cells.
Fields of application
- Losses in mental performance, with rapid fatigability, forgetfulness, poor concentration, memory and retention.
- Claudication intermittens (peripheral arterial occlusive disease).
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Dosage
According to the professional information. The intake depends on the preparation. The drugs are usually taken twice daily, independent of meals. High-dose preparations are also available that need to be taken only once daily.
Contraindications
Ginkgo extracts are contraindicated in hypersensitivity and during pregnancy. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions with antithrombotics (anticoagulants) cannot be ruled out. Ginkgo may inhibit CYP450 isozymes, potentially causing interactions.
Adverse effects
Adverse effects occur infrequently to very rarely. Possible side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, central disturbances such as headache, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, and allergic reactions. In isolated cases, bleeding has been reported.