The effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on free radical production in hypoxic rats

In the present study, we assayed the antioxidant properties of Ginkgo bilob a (Cb) extract on rats submitted to 21 d of chronic hypoxia. Doses of 25 an d 50 mg/kg were examined, Oxygenated free radical production measured by th e chemiluminescence technique was significantly decreased in treated rats c ompared to control rats plated in similar experimental conditions, and this effect was more significant at the 50 mg/kg dose. On the other hand, no an tioxidant enzyme activities of the drug were observed towards red blood cel ls, These results suggest that ginkgo biloba extract has a free radical sca venging action. These antioxidant properties could explain the beneficial h ematological properties of Gb extract.