Learn all about Ginkgo Biloba
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Sharpen memory & improve circulation with powerful ginkgo biloba. This ancient herb helps get more oxygen to your brain. Think clearer!
Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
"Ginkgo is one of the most studied botanicals, with over 400 clinical trials. Its standardized extract and multiple actions on cognitive health are key. Strongest evidence supports its effect on blood flow to the brain. While early hopes for dementia prevention weren't fully realized, research still shows benefits for specific thinking skills in people with early mild changes."
- Dr. Veronika Butterweck, PhD, Professor of Pharmaceutical Biology at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (source)
How to use Ginkgo Biloba
Dosage
Cognitive/Circulation: 120-240mg daily of standardized extract (24% flavonoid glycosides, 6% terpene lactones). Age-related cognitive issues: 240mg daily (often split). Vertigo/Tinnitus: 80-160mg daily. Higher doses (>240mg) don't seem to add more benefit.
Timing
Best taken twice daily (morning/evening) with meals. If it affects sleep, take both doses earlier. Brain benefits usually take 4-6 weeks of consistent use; circulation benefits may appear in 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Quality and standardization (24% flavonoids, 6% terpenes) are crucial. Extracts like EGb 761 and LI 1370 are well-studied. Effects vary between people. Stop taking at least 2 weeks before surgery due to potential blood thinning effects.
Who should take Ginkgo Biloba?
- Adults with mild age-related cognitive changes wanting memory/attention support
- Individuals with poor circulation (e.g., cold hands/feet, leg pain when walking - 'intermittent claudication')
- Those experiencing ringing in the ears ('tinnitus') or dizziness ('vertigo'), especially if related to circulation or age
- Adults seeking brain protection ('neuroprotection') from environmental toxins or daily wear and tear
- Individuals over 50 interested in proactive brain health
How does Ginkgo Biloba work?
Ginkgo works through its active compounds (flavonoids and terpene lactones like ginkgolides). For circulation, it helps relax blood vessels (improving blood flow via nitric oxide), makes blood less sticky (reducing platelet aggregation via ginkgolide B), and improves how red blood cells flow. For brain protection, it acts as an antioxidant (fighting 'free radicals'), boosts the body's own antioxidant defenses, protects the energy factories in cells ('mitochondria'), and prevents cell death. It also affects brain chemicals like dopamine and acetylcholine, potentially improving signalling. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory effects, especially in the brain. This multi-target action explains its diverse uses.
Frequently asked questions
Natural sources of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo benefits come exclusively from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree. Raw leaves aren't suitable due to low absorption and potentially harmful acids (ginkgolic acids) that must be removed. Medicinal products use highly specialized extraction processes (like the 27-step process for EGb 761) to create standardized extracts (24% flavonoids, 6% terpenes, <5 ppm ginkgolic acids). There are no other natural sources for ginkgo's unique compounds, especially the terpene lactones (ginkgolides, bilobalide). Trees for supplements are mainly grown in France, the US, and China.
Potential side effects & risks
Warnings
Stop at least 2 weeks before surgery due to bleeding risk. Use cautiously if you have bleeding disorders. Rare reports suggest possible increased seizure risk in those with seizure disorders (link uncertain). Avoid in pregnancy/breastfeeding (lack of safety data). Ensure product is low in ginkgolic acids (<5ppm). Never eat the raw seeds (they are toxic).
Side effects
Generally well-tolerated, similar to placebo in studies. Occasional mild headache, dizziness, or stomach upset. Rare allergic skin reactions or palpitations. Some report mild restlessness if taken in the evening.
Interactions
May increase bleeding risk with blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, etc.). Potential interactions with MAOIs, SSRIs (antidepressants), diabetes drugs, and anti-seizure meds. Might affect how the liver processes some drugs (CYP450). May enhance effects of blood pressure meds.