Evaluation of Ginkgo biloba Leaves Extract Effect on Some Biochemical Factors in Osteoporotic Rats

Abstract

     Although Ginkgo biloba has been widely investigated for its therapeutic potential, its specific role in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is poorly understood. This study aims to evaluate the effects Ginkgo biloba treatment on glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis compared to alendronate as a standard therapy. The study included 40 male rats, which were divided into five groups (n=8). Except for the control group, the other four groups were induced with osteoporosis by receiving orally 10 mg/kg body weight of glucocorticoid three times a week for four weeks. Group 3 was treated with alendronate 70mg/kg body weight, while the fourth and fifth groups were given Ginkgo biloba extract orally in two doses (28 and 56 mg/kg body weight). The results showed significant increases in phosphorus, osteocalcin, and catalase levels in the treated groups compared to the osteoporotic group. Additionally, histological study confirmed the improvement of bone structure in the treated groups compared to the osteoporotic group. In conclusion, the most important finding of this study is that Ginkgo biloba extract may be proven to be a highly effective treatment for osteoporosis, even surpassing the effectiveness of the standard drug, alendronate.