However, many of the shortcomings noted consisted of incomplete descriptions. He states that ginkgolides act in humans as a PAF antagonist. This double-blind clinical study was conducted with 20 patients over 55 years of age who were diagnosed with senile maculopathy. Ten of the patients received 80 mg of ginkgo extract a day for 6 months, while the other 10 received a placebo. According to a 1992 Lancet report, in vitro studies show that ginkgo has free radical scavenging properties.
More recent studies confirm the earlier ones.
It also appears to be an antioxidant, like vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, and thus might help prevent atherosclerotic plaque. This means less food and oxygen for brain cells. European studies show that ginkgo increases blood flow in the brain, ensuring that the brain receives the food and oxygen it needs to function. Ginkgo also improves blood flow to the Heart. Because it inhibits PAF, ginkgo can reduce the possibility of blood clots forming in coronary arteries.