Background: Ginkgo biloba (EGb) is a dietary supplement used for various purported therapeutic benefits. It contains powerful antioxidants, can help to fight inflammation, induces psychic disorders, and improves brain function. Some researchers recommended using Ginkgo Biloba as a protective agent.
The Study Aims: Are to evaluate the histological effect of chronic administration with different doses of Ginkgo Biloba on the liver and heart of adult male albino rats.
Material and Methods: The study was performed on a total number of 30 adult male albino rats; weighing 170–200 g. Rats were divided into three equal groups (10 rats each) and treated once a day. Group I (control group; n=10), each one received distilled water (1ml/day). Group II (low dose group; n=10): received EGb at a dose of 100 mg/kg BW. Group III (high dose; n=10): received a dose of EGb 200 mg/kg BW; orally by daily gavage for 4 weeks. Rats were sacrificed and prepared for histological study.
Result: In specimens of liver tissue, there were mild degenerative changes. In a low dose, the changes were in the form of cytoplasmic vacuolation and nuclear condensation. In the high dose of Ginkgo biloba, there were degenerative changes of the hepatic parenchyma varied from mild (m) degree to extensive (e) degrees. In the specimens of cardiac tissue, there were cytoplasmic vacuolations and atrophy of cardiomyocytes especially in group III, degenerative changes of the coronary artery occurred, and degeneration of the Purkinje cell fibers of the entire ventricular conducting system.
Conclusion: administration of Ginkgo biloba has degenerative effects on the liver and heart particularly in high doses