The Potential of Ginkgo Biloba as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds: A Review of the Recent Literature and Patents
May 2023
in “
Molecules
”
TLDR Ginkgo biloba has health benefits but also contains toxic compounds, driving interest in its use in medicine and food.
The review highlights the medicinal value of Ginkgo biloba, attributed to its flavonoids, terpene trilactones, and phenolic compounds, while noting the presence of toxic alkylphenols in its seeds. It summarizes recent research (2018-2022) on the plant's chemical composition and its applications in medicine and food production. The review also discusses patents related to Ginkgo biloba's use in food, emphasizing its health benefits despite concerns about toxicity and drug interactions, which continue to drive scientific interest and innovation in new food products.