Study
Ginkgo Biloba Improves Behavioral Symptoms in Seniors with Dementia
Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® reduces dementia-related behavioral symptoms and caregiver distress over 22-24 weeks.
Brain HealthMemory SupportHealthy AgingHerbal Remedies
Summary
In plain language
Recent research has shown that taking a Ginkgo biloba extract, known as EGb 761®, can help reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms in seniors with dementia. This study involved 1,628 participants over a period of 22 to 24 weeks. Those who took 240 mg of the extract daily experienced significant improvements in symptoms such as anxiety and depression, compared to those who took a placebo. Additionally, caregivers of these patients reported feeling less stressed. This is encouraging news for seniors and their families, as it suggests a natural supplement could help improve quality of life. Consider discussing this with your healthcare provider to see if it might be beneficial for you or a loved one.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
In this study, researchers analyzed data from four clinical trials involving seniors with dementia. Participants were given either Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® or a placebo for 22 to 24 weeks. The study aimed to measure changes in behavioral symptoms and caregiver distress.
Researchers found that those taking the Ginkgo biloba extract showed significant improvements in overall behavioral symptoms and reduced caregiver stress.
The study involved 1,628 participants and found that symptoms present at the start of the study improved, and the occurrence of new symptoms was reduced.
While the results are promising, it's important to note that the extract didn't significantly impact symptoms like delusions or hallucinations.
If you or someone you care for is managing dementia, consider discussing this study with a healthcare provider to see if Ginkgo biloba might be a helpful addition to your treatment plan.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
International Psychogeriatrics · Meta-Analysis
Ginkgo Biloba Improves Behavioral Symptoms in Seniors with Dementia
Published September 2017 · DOI 10.1017/s1041610217001892
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Assessment
The study scored highly due to its rigorous meta-analytic design, comprehensive bias control, and robust statistical methods. Transparency was well-handled with full data sharing and reporting. However, the absence of a detected conflict of interest disclosure impacted the conflicts score. The study's relevance to the target population and publication in a reputable journal further contributed to its overall score.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study Design / Evidence Level | 10.0/10 | |
| Bias & Methods | 10.0/10 | |
| Statistical Integrity | 10.0/10 | |
| Transparency | 10.0/10 | |
| Conflict of Interest Disclosure | 0.0/10 | |
| Replication / External Validation | 10.0/10 | |
| Relevance to Seniors | 10.0/10 | |
| Journal Quality | 5.0/10 |
Additional Notes
This meta-analysis evaluates the effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in seniors, showing significant improvements over placebo in several symptoms and caregiver distress.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were checked.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
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