Ginkgo bilobaL.: Phytochemical components and antioxidant activity

Abstract

Curative effects of Ginkgo biloba L. have been recognized for centuries, dating back to traditional Chinese medicine which used crushed leaves to treat several health problems. Although G. biloba L. has several known and investigated activities, the antioxidant activity of its extract (EGb 761) is particularly relevant because reactive oxygen (ROS) and reactive nitrogen (RNS) species are constantly produced in aerobic organisms. Currently, the exploitation of the antioxidant activity of G. biloba extract Egb 761 has been of particular pharmacological importance because oxidative stress may be harmful to cells and may trigger the development of many disorders. The antioxidant activity of the EGb extract against oxidative stress has been associated with several therapeutic effects and currently, Egb761 is indicated to treat labyrinthitis, headache, memory disturbance, intermittent claudication, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, glaucoma, cardiovascular disorders, cerebral ischemia, increased libido and sexual activity, and psychiatric diseases, such as depression. This study is a review of basic and clinical studies related to antioxidant properties of G. biloba L.