The Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Supplementation on Serum Levels of Certain Markers Muscle Demage Following Prolonged Aerobic Exercise in Amateur Athletes: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Abstract Background: Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common physiological issue in athletes. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Ginkgo biloba may help reduce exercise-induced muscle damage. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Ginkgo biloba supplementation on markers of muscle soreness following exhaustive aerobic exercise in non-professional male athletes. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 24 non-professional male athletes were randomly assigned to two groups: a supplement group (receiving 200 mg/day of Ginkgo biloba) and a placebo group, for a duration of two weeks. At the end of the supplementation period, a Bruce treadmill test was performed to induce muscle fatigue. Blood samples were collected at four time points (before intervention, after two weeks, immediately post-exercise, and 24 hours post-exercise). Data were analyzed using SPSS software at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The mean serum levels of myoglobin, lactate, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly lower in the Ginkgo biloba group compared to the placebo group. Additionally, DOMS intensity was significantly reduced in the supplement group both immediately after exercise and 24 hours later. However, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen pulse were not significantly affected by the supplementation, and no significant differences were observed between the groups. Conclusion: Ginkgo biloba supplementation may reduce muscle damage and DOMS severity after intense aerobic exercise. It may serve as an effective nutritional strategy to accelerate muscle recovery in non-professional athletes. Keywords: Ginkgo biloba, muscle soreness, lactate dehydrogenase, myoglobin, non-professional athlete.