Evidence supporting the use of: Ginkgolides
For the health condition: Strokes

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Synopsis

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

Ginkgolides are a group of diterpene lactones found in the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree. Their use in supporting or treating stroke is primarily based on scientific investigation, particularly in East Asian countries where Ginkgo extracts are used in hospital settings. Ginkgolides, especially ginkgolide B, act as platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists, which theoretically could help prevent thrombosis and improve microcirculation in the brain following an ischemic stroke. Several clinical studies and meta-analyses, primarily from China, have explored the use of Ginkgo biloba extract (not isolated ginkgolides) as an adjunct therapy in acute ischemic stroke. Some trials suggest modest benefits in neurological function and reduced disability when used alongside conventional treatments, but results are inconsistent, and many studies have methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes or lack of blinding.

Major Western clinical guidelines do not endorse ginkgolides or Ginkgo biloba for stroke treatment, citing insufficient high-quality evidence of efficacy and concerns about potential bleeding risk due to antiplatelet effects. The overall evidence supporting ginkgolides for treating stroke is therefore limited and considered weak by international standards.

In summary, while there is some scientific exploration into the use of ginkgolides for stroke, the quality and consistency of evidence is low, and their use is not widely accepted in mainstream medicine outside of specific traditional or regional practices.

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