The research surrounding the benefits of Ginkgo biloba is inconclusive. However, it may benefit cognitive function, depression, and stroke rehabilitation.
Ginkgo biloba extract is collected from the dried green leaves of the plant and is available as liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets.
Ginkgo biloba is a deciduous tree commonly referred to as a “living fossil.” It was first used for its medicinal properties in Ancient China to treat diarrhea, cough, and other conditions. It was introduced to Western medicine in 1964.
The extract can be taken as a supplement, and the dried leaves of the plant can be used to make tea.
Ginkgo biloba is one of the
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- tinnitus
- multiple sclerosis
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It is important to note that there is no Food and Drug Administration-approved use for Ginkgo biloba. Additionally, the NCCIH states that there is no conclusive evidence that it can benefit any health condition.
Memory enhancement, dementia, and Alzheimer’s
A 2020 review states that research on the effect of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive function has been ongoing since the 1980s. However, the results appear inconsistent, and the benefits of Ginkgo biloba extract in treating Alzheimer’s disease are controversial.
The authors of the review concluded that Ginkgo biloba extract may help improve cognitive function in those with mild dementia. However, this is only the case with long-term treatment lasting over 24 weeks and at a dosage of 240 milligrams per day.
One of the
The GEM study consisted of over 3000 people ages 75 or older with normal and mildly impaired cognitive function. They took a 120 mg Ginkgo biloba supplement twice a day or a placebo for around 6 years. The researchers concluded that Ginkgo biloba was not effective at reducing the incidence of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Depression and other psychiatric conditions
Although the overall evidence is
- Depression: A study from 2018 found that Ginkgo biloba could improve depressive symptoms alongside treatment with citalopram, an antidepressant. Additionally, a 2024 systematic review of 21 studies found that Ginkgo biloba may reduce the risk of depression or symptoms of depression.
- Schizophrenia:
Research from 2011 concluded that Ginkgo biloba reduced symptoms of tardive dyskinesia (TD) in those with schizophrenia. TD is a neurological movement disorder that causes involuntary movements.
Stroke rehabilitation
Gingko biloba may help to improve cognitive performance in those who are recovering from a stroke.
A 2023 trial found that 240mg per day of Ginkgo biloba for 24 weeks improved cognitive function in those who experienced a mild to moderate ischemic stroke.
Ginkgo biloba is available in capsule form, as tablets, liquid extracts, and dried leaves for teas. A
The dosage can vary, but many studies use between 120 and 240 mg per day. Some manufacturers recommend 40 mg three times per day or 80 mg twice per day.
Although typically well-tolerated, possible side effects of Ginkgo biloba
- stomach upset
- constipation
- allergic skin reactions
- headache
- heart palpitations
People who should not take ginkgo biloba include:
- those with bleeding disorders
- those undergoing surgery
- pregnant or nursing people
- those with epilepsy or prone to seizures
It can also interact with some medications, such as antiplatelets, anticoagulants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A
- aspirin
- clopidogrel
- celecoxib
- locoprofen
- nifedipine
- omeprazole
- ticagrelor
- etoricoxib
- insulin
- domperidone
People should speak with a healthcare professional before taking Ginkgo biloba to make sure that it is safe.
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