Ginkgo biloba L.: A Miracle Plant for Anti-Ageing – A Pharmacological and Biotechnological Perspective: Review Article

Traditional plant-based foods and natural supplements have shown promising potential in counteracting the effects of aging. Among these, Ginkgo biloba-commonly known as ginkgo or maidenhair tree stands out as a unique species with both historical significance and modern scientific interest. Often referred to as a ‘living fossil’, it is the only surviving member of an ancient group of gymnosperms and has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal properties. Widely grown across the globe, particularly in Europe and North America, Ginkgo biloba is renowned for its rich array of bioactive compounds, which exhibit antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, and immune-boosting effects. Its extract has been used extensively in traditional practices and is now a common component in clinical therapies aimed at enhancing blood circulation, supporting cognitive function, and managing age-related neurological and cardiovascular conditions. As scientific exploration expands, there is a growing interest in both the pharmacological mechanisms and the biotechnological advancements associated with this ancient plant. This review presents an integrative summary of the current understanding of Ginkgo biloba from both therapeutic and technological perspectives.