Variation of terpene lactones composition in Ginkgo biloba (L.) leaves under the influence of harvesting time and growing location

Our research aim was to investigate quantitative composition of terpene lactones in G. biloba leaf samples cultivated in the Nordic Baltic region (Lithuania) and present recommendations to industry on rational planning of the collection of plant material rich in terpene lactones. The data of our study showed that the location of the tree and the time of harvest have significant effect (p<0.05) on the amount of terpene lactones. Studies have shown that the age of the plant affects the amount of the accumulated terpene lactones in Ginkgo biloba leaves, and thus it is important to determine the optimal age of the plantation trees for the harvesting of raw material. A tendency was found that the amount of terpene lactones in Ginkgo biloba leaf samples decrease with the increasing age of the plant. To ensure the optimal collection of raw material, it is recommended to place the G. biloba plantations in northern (to collect the highest amount of ginkgolide A, B, C) and western (to collect the highest amount of bilobalide) phyto-regions. Due to the maximum concentration of ginkgolide C, A, B and bilobalide in samples, October is recommended as appropriate times to collect G. biloba leaves for the industry.

Automated summary

The location, harvest time, and age of the plant all have significant effects on the terpene lactone content in Ginkgo biloba leaves. It is recommended to plant Ginkgo biloba in northern and western regions for optimal terpene lactone collection, and October is suggested as the appropriate time for leaf harvesting due to the highest concentration of ginkgolide A, B, C, and bilobalide in samples.