Study
Ginkgo Biloba May Help Reduce Vitiligo Symptoms
A small study found that taking Ginkgo biloba twice daily improved vitiligo symptoms in young adults.
Summary
In plain language
Researchers explored whether Ginkgo biloba, a common herbal supplement, could help with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes loss of pigmentation. In a small study, participants aged 12 to 35 took 60 mg of Ginkgo biloba twice a day for 12 weeks. The study found that the progression of vitiligo stopped in all participants, and there was a 15% improvement in skin pigmentation. While this study was small, it suggests that Ginkgo biloba might be a helpful addition to vitiligo treatment options. Seniors interested in exploring this approach should discuss it with their healthcare provider.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
This study was a small, open-label pilot trial conducted in the Greater Toronto Area.
Twelve participants with vitiligo took 60 mg of Ginkgo biloba twice daily for 12 weeks.
The study saw a 15% improvement in skin pigmentation, with no serious adverse effects reported.
While the results are promising, the study's small size means more research is needed to confirm these findings.
If you're considering Ginkgo biloba, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it's safe and appropriate for you.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine · Clinical Trial
Ginkgo Biloba May Help Reduce Vitiligo Symptoms
Published March 2011 · DOI 10.1186/1472-6882-11-21
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Assessment
The study's methodological quality is limited by its open-label design, lack of randomization, and absence of a control group, which affects bias control and statistical integrity. The study was registered, but transparency in reporting could be improved. The conflicts of interest are partially mitigated by clear disclosure, but the provision of supplements by a company introduces potential bias. The study's relevance to the target population is low due to the age range of participants. Published in a reputable journal, the study provides preliminary findings that warrant further investigation.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study Design / Evidence Level | 3.3/10 | |
| Bias & Methods | 0.0/10 | |
| Statistical Integrity | 5.0/10 | |
| Transparency | 5.0/10 | |
| Conflict of Interest Disclosure | 7.5/10 | |
| Replication / External Validation | 0.0/10 | |
| Relevance to Seniors | 0.0/10 | |
| Journal Quality | 5.0/10 |
Additional Notes
This open-label pilot trial assessed the feasibility of using Ginkgo biloba to treat vitiligo in participants aged 12-35. The study found some improvement in vitiligo symptoms, but larger, randomized studies are needed.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were reviewed.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
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