Terpene lactones

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Other names for terpene lactones

Ginkgolides
Bilobalide
Ginkgo Terpene Extracts

Synopsis of terpene lactones

Terpene lactones are a class of bioactive compounds derived from terpenes—a large group of plant-based molecules—combined with a lactone ring structure. They are best known for their presence in the Ginkgo biloba plant, where specific terpene lactones such as ginkgolides (A, B, C, J) and bilobalide have been identified and studied extensively. These compounds are notable for their neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and circulation-enhancing effects.

The most researched terpene lactones are the ginkgolides, which are unique diterpenes that act as platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists. By blocking PAF, these compounds help improve microcirculation, reduce inflammation, and potentially protect against ischemic damage, making them particularly valuable in cognitive health and vascular support. Bilobalide, a sesquiterpene lactone from Ginkgo, contributes neuroprotective and anti-excitotoxic effects, supporting brain cell resilience and mitochondrial health.

Together, these terpene lactones contribute to Ginkgo’s use in improving memory, focus, vertigo, tinnitus, and peripheral circulation—especially in cases of age-related cognitive decline or vascular insufficiency.

Other Sources and Biological Roles:
While terpene lactones are most famously found in Ginkgo biloba, similar compounds exist in other plant families and may include artemisinin (from Artemisia annua), costunolide (from Saussurea and Inula species), and various sesquiterpene lactones in herbs like feverfew, chamomile, and yarrow. These compounds often exhibit anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimalarial, or antimicrobial activities, depending on the plant and specific chemical structure.

In herbal medicine, many of these terpene lactones are recognized for their bitter taste and medicinal potency, acting as liver tonics, anti-inflammatories, or immune modulators.

Historical Use:
The use of terpene lactone–rich plants dates back centuries, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and European herbalism. For example:

  • Ginkgo biloba has been used in TCM for over 1,000 years to support brain, lung, and vascular health.
  • Feverfew, rich in sesquiterpene lactones like parthenolide, has long been used in Western herbalism for migraine prevention and inflammation.
  • Artemisia species, which produce artemisinin and related lactones, have been used for fevers and malaria in various traditional systems.

The isolation and study of terpene lactones accelerated in the 20th century with the development of standardized Ginkgo extracts (e.g., EGb 761), which are formulated to contain 6% terpene lactones and 24% flavonol glycosides. This standard is now widely used in clinical trials and commercial supplements.

Applications Today:
Terpene lactones are found in:

  • Cognitive health supplements (especially Ginkgo-based)
  • Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective formulas
  • Adjunct therapies for tinnitus, vertigo, and memory loss
  • Vascular and peripheral circulation support

They are generally well-tolerated, though standardized dosing is essential due to their potency. Some individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, or mild GI upset when first using terpene lactone–rich products, particularly Ginkgo.

Terpene lactones is used for these health conditions

Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)

terpene lactones is used to support these body systems

Acetylcholine (Scientific)
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Capillaries (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Specific Neurotransmitters (Scientific)

Products containing terpene lactones

Nature's Sunshine Ginkgo Biloba Extract (Time Release)