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Randomised trial, 1993

Does Ginkgo biloba help congestive symptoms of PMS?

Yes. Ginkgo biloba extract was significantly more effective than placebo, particularly for breast symptoms, and also improved neuropsychological symptoms.

Moderate study design 165 women aged 18-45 with congestive premenstrual symptoms lasting at least 7 days per cycle

What they did

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 165 women aged 18-45 with congestive PMS symptoms lasting at least 7 days per cycle. After confirming diagnosis over one menstrual cycle, women received either Ginkgo biloba extract or placebo from day 16 of the cycle to day 5 of the next cycle for 2 cycles. Women and doctors rated symptoms daily.

What they found

143 women completed the study. Ginkgo biloba was significantly more effective than placebo for breast symptoms. Neuropsychological symptoms also improved.

What it means for you

Ginkgo biloba may help congestive PMS symptoms, especially breast symptoms. The main limit is that this study focused only on congestive symptoms, not all types of PMS.

165

women studied

143

completed the study

2

treatment cycles

About the study

Original title
[Value of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) in the management of congestive symptoms of premenstrual syndrome]
Authors
Tamborini A, Taurelle R
Journal
Revue francaise de gynecologie et d'obstetrique
Year
1993
Study design
Randomised trial
Participants
165
What was tested
Standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761)

Topics