Ginkgo Biloba extract for age-related macular degeneration

Evans JR

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Summary

Gingko Biloba, an extract from the leaves of the maidenhair tree, for slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition affecting the central area of the retina (back of the eye). The retina can deteriorate with age and some people get lesions that can lead to loss of central vision. Gingko Biloba, extracted from the leaves of the maidenhair tree, is used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat a variety of medical conditions, in particular circulatory problems. Ginkgo Biloba extract contains two constituents (flavonoids and terpenoids) which have antioxidant properties. It is believed these may help to slow down the progression of age-related macular degeneration. The author identified two small randomised controlled studies (119 participants); one in France and one in Germany. One trial compared Gingko Biloba to placebo and the other compared two different doses of the extract. Although both trials reported some positive effects of Ginkgo Biloba on vision, the trials were small and of short duration. The overall conclusion of this review is that current research has not answered the question as to whether Ginkgo Biloba is of benefit to people with AMD. Further research is needed.

This is a Cochrane review abstract and plain language summary, prepared and maintained by The Cochrane Collaboration, currently published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008 Issue 2, Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.. The full text of the review is available in The Cochrane Library (ISSN 1464-780X).
This record should be cited as: Evans JR. Ginkgo Biloba extract for age-related macular degeneration. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 1999, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD001775. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001775

This version first published online: July 26. 1999
Date of last subtantive update: May 05. 1999

Abstract

Background

Ginkgo is used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease and 'cerebral insufficiency'. It is thought to have several potential mechanisms of action including increased blood flow, platelet activating factor antagonism and prevention of membrane damage caused by free radicals. Vascular factors and oxidative damage are thought to be two potential mechanisms in the pathology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Objectives

The objective of this review was to determine the effect of Ginkgo Biloba extract on the progression of AMD.

Search strategy

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register) on The Cochrane Library (2005, Issue 4), MEDLINE (1966 to January 2006, week 3), EMBASE (1980 to January 2006), SIGLE (1980 to 2005/03), AMED (1985 to January 2006), NRR (2005, Issue 4), reference lists of identified trial reports, and the Science Citation Index. We also contacted investigators of included studies for additional information.

Selection criteria

All randomised trials where Ginkgo Biloba extract had been compared to control in people with AMD were included.

Data collection and analysis

The review author extracted data using a standardised form. The data were verified with the trial investigators. Trial quality was assessed.

Main results

Two published trials were identified. However, these trials were small (20 and 99 participants) and their results could not be pooled because they had different control groups. Adverse effects and quality of life for people with AMD have not been addressed.

Authors' conclusions

The question as to whether people with AMD should take Ginkgo Biloba extract to prevent progression of the disease has not been answered by research to date.

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