1 February 2001
Chinese herb extract effective against "white finger"
Researchers at the University of Dundee's Institute of Cardiovascular
Research have discovered that an ancient Chinese remedy can be effective
in the treatment of Raynaud's Phenomenon or "white finger". Raynaud's is a
condition where the fingers and toes go cold and white in the cold
weather.
The blood vessels in the affected area go into spasm and blood flow is
decreased. This can produce pain, numbness and in severe cases
ulceration.
Professor Jill Belch and Dr Andrew Muir of the Department of Medicine
conducted a clinical study of Ginkgo biloba extract (Seredrin, Health
Perception Limited) as a treatment for Raynaud's. Each of the patients
completed a diary recording how often they suffered attacks of white
finger (vasospasm). Half the group received the Ginkgo treatment and half an
inactive dummy. During the 10 weeks of treatment it was noted that those
patients who were taking the active Ginkgo extract experienced a 56%
reduction in the number of blanching attacks.
Ginkgo biloba is a deciduous tree whose leaf extracts have been used
therapeutically for centuries. More recently, formal scientific trials
have been conducted and results suggest that Ginkgo may have a role to play
in the treatment of circulatory disorders. In Germany and France it is one
of the most commonly used complementary medicines. Seredrin is high
strength Ginkgo biloba extract blended with a patented process called Phytosome.
This process was perfected by Indena in Italy.
Raynaud's is a common and painful condition and treatment can be
difficult.Commonly prescribed drugs can have side-effects such as headache and
flushing and this complementary therapy may provide a useful alternative
in the treatment of Raynaud's disease.ENDS
Note for Editors
The Press Conference is taking place at Dolphin Square Hotel, Chichester
Street, London SW1 at 2pm. Jill Belch will be available for questions
and answers. She will be followed by Dr Paolo Morazzoni, Scientific
Director, Indena SpA, Milan, Italy who will be presenting on the chemical and
pharmacological profile of the Ginkgo biloba
Phytosome, the active ingredient of Seredrin.
Contact Prof Jill Belch 01382 660111 ext 32457