There is a vast literature describing basic scientific research relating to the effects of ginkgo. Several pharmacological activities have been documented for ginkgo leaf extracts and/or their constituents. These include effects on behaviour, learning and memory, cardiovascular activities, effects on blood flow and antioxidant activity. The most important active principles of ginkgo extract include the ginkgo flavonoid glycosides and the terpene lactones. Ginkgo has been described as having polyvalent action, i.e. the combined activity of several of its constituents is likely to be responsible for its effects.
Effects on behaviour, learning and memory
Have the effects on learning and memory, and on behaviour in relation to ageing and in recovery from brain injury.
Cardiovascular and haemorheological activities
Studies investigating the molecular mechanisms that may contribute to
the vasoregulatory (vasodilatation and vasoconstriction) effects have been described.
Antioxidant activity
The free radical-scavenging effects and antioxidant activity are well documented.
