Herbal remedy does not prevent people developing Alzheimer’s, large study shows
Published 6 September 2012
Ginkgo biloba does not significantly reduce older people’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s, according to research published in Lancet Neurology.
The study by University of Toulouse, involved 2854 people in France aged 70 years old or older who had gone to their GP with memory problems. 1406 people were given 120mg of ginkgo biloba twice a day for five years while 1414 people were given a placebo. After five years, 61 (four per cent) of people in the ginkgo biloba group had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's compared to 73 (five per cent) of people in the placebo group.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'It is understandable that people would want to hear that an over-the-counter herbal remedy could be the answer to preventing Alzheimer's. For a while it was hoped that ginkgo biloba could be the wonder drug. However, in recent years evidence - including a previous study by Alzheimer's Society - has repeatedly shown that it does not have any benefits in preventing the disease or slowing down symptoms.'
'One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. The best way for people to reduce their risk is to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not smoke and keep their cholesterol levels in check.'
Jess Smith
Research spokesperson
Alzheimer's Society
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Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
