A report published in the October 11, 2009 issue of the International Journal of Low Radiation provided evidence of a protective effect for Ginkgo biloba extract against radiation damage. Such damage may occur during radiological body imaging techniques, accidents or occupational overexposure.

The researchers  used radiation-induced programmed cell death (apoptosis) to evaluate the protective effect of ginkgo extract. In one experiment, white blood cells from human donors aged 18 to 50 were treated with one of four concentrations of ginkgo extract or a 9% saline solution before being exposed to gamma rays.

The researchers found a significant dose-dependent reduction in apoptotic cells among those treated with ginkgo. While radiation induced apoptosis occurred in nearly one third of irradiated cells not treated with ginkgo, the number declined to 5% or less in cells treated with the highest concentration of the herb.

In another experiment, mice were treated with ginkgo extract or saline before and after receiving whole body ionizing radiation. Examination of the animals spleens found that treatment with ginkgo maintained organ size comparable with that of animals that did not receive radiation, while spleens in irradiated animals that did not receive ginkgo were significantly smaller.

Premium-grade Ginkgo biloba extract is a primary ingredient in Arches Tinnitus Relief Formula.

Barry Keate