Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Ginkgolide C is a diterpenoid compound extracted from Ginkgo biloba leaves that exhibits anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. This bioactive terpenoid works primarily through modulation of inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress reduction in laboratory studies.
CategoryNamed Bioactive Compounds
GroupCompound
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary KeywordGinkgolide C benefits
Synergy Pairings3
Ginkgolide C (Diterpenoid) — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Ginkgolide C is a highly oxygenated diterpenoid lactone isolated from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba L., a tree native to China. It features a rigid hexacyclic C20 trilactone structure with a molecular weight of 440.398 and is extracted via standard phytochemical methods, though total chemical synthesis has been achieved in 26 steps.
“No information on historical or traditional medicinal uses of Ginkgolide C specifically is available. While it occurs naturally in Ginkgo biloba, sources provide no context regarding its role in traditional medicine systems.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses specifically for Ginkgolide C have been conducted according to available sources. Current research focuses solely on isolation methods, structural characterization, and preclinical properties without any PubMed PMIDs for human trials provided.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
No clinically studied dosage ranges, forms, or standardization details are available as no human clinical data exist for Ginkgolide C. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Nutritional Profile
Ginkgolide C is a bioactive diterpenoid lactone compound isolated from Ginkgo biloba, with a molecular formula of C20H24O11 and molecular weight of approximately 456.39 g/mol. It is not a macronutrient, micronutrient, or conventional food ingredient, and therefore contributes no caloric value, protein, fat, carbohydrate, fiber, vitamins, or dietary minerals. As a pure phytochemical compound, its profile is defined entirely by its bioactive structure: it contains a unique cage-like terpenoid skeleton with six five-membered rings and multiple lactone groups, distinguishing it from Ginkgolide A and B by the presence of three hydroxyl groups at C-1, C-3, and C-7 positions. Ginkgolide C is a potent platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonist, with inhibitory activity at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations (IC50 values reported in the range of 1–100 µM depending on assay conditions). It is typically found in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts at trace concentrations, generally comprising a minor fraction of the total ginkgolide content (estimated <0.05% dry weight of standardized extracts). Bioavailability data specific to Ginkgolide C in humans is not established; however, related ginkgolides show moderate oral absorption with significant first-pass metabolism. It is lipophilic in nature, which may facilitate membrane permeability, but its complex polycyclic structure may limit rapid metabolic degradation.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Ginkgolide C exerts its effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β while reducing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation. The compound also enhances antioxidant enzyme activity and protects against oxidative stress by scavenging reactive oxygen species. Additionally, it may modulate neuronal calcium channels and reduce neuroinflammatory responses in brain tissue.
Clinical Evidence
Current evidence for Ginkgolide C is limited to preclinical laboratory studies and animal models. In vitro studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects with reduced cytokine production, while animal studies show neuroprotective properties in models of brain injury. No human clinical trials have been conducted to establish therapeutic efficacy or optimal dosing. The preliminary evidence quality necessitates further research before clinical applications can be validated.
Safety & Interactions
Safety data for isolated Ginkgolide C is extremely limited due to lack of human studies. As a component of Ginkgo biloba extracts, it may theoretically increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant medications like warfarin. Potential side effects may include gastrointestinal upset and headaches, though specific data for Ginkgolide C alone is unavailable. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
Ginkgolide CGkCBN 52063Diterpenoid lactone CGinkgo trilactone C白果内酯CHexacyclic diterpenoid C
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Ginkgolide C and other ginkgolides?
Ginkgolide C is one of several diterpenoid compounds in Ginkgo biloba, alongside Ginkgolides A and B. While all ginkgolides share similar anti-inflammatory properties, Ginkgolide C has a unique molecular structure with different hydroxyl group positioning that may influence its bioactivity and potency.
How much Ginkgolide C is found in standard Ginkgo supplements?
Most standardized Ginkgo biloba extracts contain 2-3% total ginkgolides, with Ginkgolide C typically representing less than 1% of the total extract. A typical 120mg Ginkgo supplement would contain approximately 1-2mg of Ginkgolide C, though concentrations vary significantly between products.
Can Ginkgolide C cross the blood-brain barrier?
Laboratory studies suggest Ginkgolide C can cross the blood-brain barrier, which is essential for its observed neuroprotective effects. However, the exact bioavailability and brain penetration rates in humans have not been definitively established through clinical research.
Are there any natural food sources of Ginkgolide C besides supplements?
Ginkgolide C is found exclusively in Ginkgo biloba tree leaves and is not present in common dietary sources. The compound requires specialized extraction processes from Ginkgo leaves, making standardized supplements the only practical source for therapeutic concentrations.
How long does Ginkgolide C stay active in the body?
The pharmacokinetics of Ginkgolide C in humans are poorly understood due to limited research. Based on animal studies, the compound appears to have a relatively short half-life of several hours, but definitive human metabolism and elimination data are not available.
Is Ginkgolide C safe to take with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?
Ginkgo biloba extracts containing ginkgolides have been associated with potential anticoagulant effects in some studies, raising concerns about concurrent use with medications like warfarin or aspirin. However, specific safety data for isolated Ginkgolide C with blood thinners is limited and not well-documented in clinical literature. If you take anticoagulant medications, consult your healthcare provider before using ginkgolide-containing supplements to assess individual risk.
What does current research show about Ginkgolide C's effectiveness in humans?
Currently, there are no completed human clinical trials demonstrating the health benefits of Ginkgolide C, though preliminary laboratory studies suggest anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. All evidence for this compound remains preclinical, meaning results are from cell and animal models rather than human subjects. More rigorous clinical research is needed before definitive claims about its efficacy can be made.
Who should avoid taking supplements containing Ginkgolide C?
People taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, those with bleeding disorders, and individuals scheduled for surgery should exercise caution with ginkgolide-containing products due to potential anticoagulant activity. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid these supplements as safety data in these populations is not established. Those with known allergies to Ginkgo biloba or its components should also avoid ginkgolide supplements.
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