Evidence supporting the use of: Ginkgolide A
For the health condition: Dementia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ginkgolide A is a terpene lactone found in the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree. Ginkgo biloba extracts, which contain ginkgolides (including Ginkgolide A), have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for centuries, particularly for cognitive enhancement and circulatory disorders. However, scientific interest has focused on their potential use in supporting or treating dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The proposed mechanisms include antioxidant effects, improvement of cerebral blood flow, and inhibition of platelet-activating factor. Clinical studies and reviews have evaluated standardized Ginkgo biloba extracts, such as EGb 761, which contain a mixture of ginkgolides, bilobalide, and flavonoids. Some randomized controlled trials have shown modest cognitive benefits in dementia patients compared to placebo, while others have found no significant effects. Meta-analyses suggest that Ginkgo biloba extract may offer small improvements in cognitive function and activities of daily living in people with mild to moderate dementia, but the clinical significance is debated. Importantly, most studies assess the effects of the whole standardized extract, not isolated Ginkgolide A. Current guidelines and systematic reviews generally conclude that there is limited scientific evidence supporting Ginkgo biloba extract for dementia, with inconsistent results and methodological limitations. There is insufficient evidence to recommend Ginkgolide A alone for dementia, and its specific efficacy compared to the whole extract remains unproven.

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