Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is among the oldest surviving tree species on Earth, dating back millions of years. This ancient plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and today, ginkgo supplements remain one of the most popular herbal remedies in the United States and worldwide. People turn to ginkgo for various health concerns, particularly those related to cognitive function, circulation, and overall wellness.
Ginkgo supplements are typically made from the dried green leaves of the plant, which contain numerous bioactive compounds. While ginkgo has been extensively studied, understanding what the research actually shows about its benefits, risks, and appropriate uses is essential for anyone considering this supplement.
What Is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo biloba is a unique tree species with no close living relatives, often referred to as a “living fossil.” The tree is native to China and can live for over 1,000 years, growing up to 120 feet tall. Its distinctive fan-shaped leaves have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
Modern ginkgo supplements are standardized extracts made from dried ginkgo leaves. These extracts concentrate the plant’s active compounds while removing potentially harmful substances found in raw ginkgo seeds and other plant parts.
Active Compounds in Ginkgo
Ginkgo contains several biologically active compounds that contribute to its effects on the body:
Flavonoids: These plant-based antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. The primary flavonoids in ginkgo include quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, which may support cellular health throughout the body.
Terpenoids: Ginkgo contains unique terpenoids called ginkgolides and bilobalide. These compounds may influence blood flow by helping to dilate blood vessels and potentially reducing platelet aggregation, which affects how blood clots form.
These compounds work together to produce the various effects attributed to ginkgo supplements, though the exact mechanisms are still being researched.
Potential Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba has been studied for numerous health conditions. However, it’s important to note that research results have been mixed, and more high-quality studies are needed to confirm many of the proposed benefits.
Cognitive Function and Memory
One of the most common reasons people take ginkgo is to support brain health and cognitive function. The research in this area presents a complex picture:
Some studies suggest that ginkgo extract may provide modest improvements in memory and cognitive speed in healthy adults. However, numerous large-scale studies have not found significant benefits for memory enhancement in people without cognitive impairment.
The evidence does not support taking ginkgo to prevent age-related cognitive decline in healthy individuals. While some people report subjective improvements in mental clarity, controlled studies have not consistently demonstrated measurable cognitive benefits.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Ginkgo has been extensively studied for its potential to help people with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Some research indicates that ginkgo may help ease certain symptoms of dementia, such as difficulty with daily activities and social behavior.
However, the evidence clearly shows that ginkgo does not prevent dementia from developing, nor does it slow the progression of cognitive decline in people who already have dementia. Multiple large, well-designed studies have failed to demonstrate that ginkgo can prevent or significantly alter the course of dementia.
Circulation and Claudication
Claudication refers to leg pain that occurs during walking due to reduced blood flow, typically caused by peripheral artery disease. Some smaller studies have suggested that ginkgo might help people with claudication walk longer distances before experiencing pain.
However, larger and more rigorous studies have not confirmed these benefits. The current evidence does not strongly support using ginkgo as a treatment for claudication or other circulation problems.
Eye Health
Some research has explored whether ginkgo might benefit people with age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma due to its potential effects on blood flow and antioxidant properties. However, the evidence remains insufficient to recommend ginkgo for these conditions.
Anxiety and Mental Well-being
Limited research has examined ginkgo’s potential effects on anxiety and mood. While some people report feeling less anxious when taking ginkgo, scientific studies have not provided strong evidence for these benefits.
Other Conditions
Ginkgo has been studied for various other conditions, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, sexual dysfunction, and seasonal allergies. For most of these conditions, the research has not shown consistent or significant benefits.
How Ginkgo Biloba Works
Researchers believe ginkgo may work through several mechanisms:
Antioxidant Activity: The flavonoids in ginkgo act as antioxidants, potentially protecting cells and tissues from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Blood Flow Effects: Ginkgo’s terpenoids may help improve circulation by promoting blood vessel dilation and potentially influencing how blood flows through small vessels.
Neuroprotective Properties: Some research suggests ginkgo compounds might help protect nerve cells from damage, though the clinical significance of this effect remains unclear.
Platelet Function: Ginkgo may affect how platelets function, which is why it can increase bleeding risk and interact with blood-thinning medications.
Dosage and How to Use Ginkgo
Ginkgo supplements are available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and teas. Standardized extracts are the most commonly studied and recommended forms.
Typical dosages used in research studies range from 120 to 240 milligrams per day, usually divided into two or three doses. However, optimal dosing has not been clearly established for most conditions.
Important safety note: Never consume raw or roasted ginkgo seeds, as they contain toxic compounds that can cause serious adverse effects, including seizures.
If you’re considering taking ginkgo supplements, consult with your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine whether ginkgo is appropriate for your situation and advise you on proper dosing.
Safety and Side Effects
When taken orally in typical amounts for short periods, ginkgo appears to be relatively safe for most healthy adults. However, like all supplements, it can cause side effects and may not be safe for everyone.
Common Side Effects
Ginkgo can cause various side effects, including:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations (feeling of rapid or pounding heartbeat)
- Upset stomach or digestive discomfort
- Constipation
- Skin allergic reactions or rashes
- Low sodium levels in the blood
Serious Safety Concerns
Bleeding Risk: Ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding, which is one of the most significant safety concerns. This is particularly important for people with bleeding disorders, those scheduled for surgery, or individuals taking blood-thinning medications.
Seizure Risk: Large amounts of ginkgo, or consuming ginkgo seeds, may increase seizure risk. People with epilepsy or any seizure disorder should avoid ginkgo supplements.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women should not take ginkgo due to the potential bleeding risk and lack of safety data.
Cancer Concerns: Some animal studies have raised concerns about potential links between long-term ginkgo use and increased risk of liver and thyroid cancer in rodents. The relevance of these findings to humans remains unclear and requires further research.
Who Should Avoid Ginkgo?
You should not take ginkgo if you:
- Have a bleeding disorder or are at increased risk of bleeding
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
- Are scheduled for surgery (stop taking ginkgo at least two weeks before any surgical procedure)
- Are taking blood-thinning medications
Drug Interactions and Precautions
Ginkgo can interact with numerous medications, herbs, and supplements. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining ginkgo with any other treatments.
Significant Interactions
Blood Thinners: Ginkgo may enhance the effects of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications, significantly increasing bleeding risk. This includes prescription blood thinners as well as over-the-counter medications like aspirin and ibuprofen.
Seizure Medications: Large amounts of ginkgo might lower the seizure threshold and potentially reduce the effectiveness of anticonvulsant medications.
Certain Antidepressants: Ginkgo may interact with some antidepressants, potentially affecting their effectiveness. If you’re taking antidepressant medication, discuss ginkgo use with your doctor.
Diabetes Medications: Ginkgo might affect blood sugar levels and how your body responds to diabetes medications. If you have diabetes and take ginkgo, monitor your blood sugar levels closely and work with your healthcare provider.
Anti-Anxiety Medications: Ginkgo may reduce the effectiveness of certain anti-anxiety medications.
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications: Ginkgo appears to interact with some statin medications used to lower cholesterol, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
Other Herbs and Supplements: Ginkgo may interact with other herbs and supplements that affect bleeding, blood sugar, or seizure risk.
Quality and Standardization
The quality of ginkgo supplements can vary significantly between products. Since dietary supplements are not as strictly regulated as medications in the United States, choosing high-quality products is essential.
Look for ginkgo supplements that:
- Are standardized to contain specific amounts of active compounds (typically 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpenoids)
- Have been tested by independent third-party organizations
- Are manufactured by reputable companies following good manufacturing practices
- Clearly list ingredients and dosage information
Third-party testing organizations like USP, NSF International, or ConsumerLab.com can help verify supplement quality and purity.
What Does the Science Say?
After decades of research and hundreds of studies, the scientific consensus on ginkgo biloba is nuanced:
For most of the conditions it’s commonly used for, including preventing cognitive decline, improving memory in healthy adults, and treating circulation problems, the evidence does not strongly support ginkgo’s effectiveness. While some studies show modest benefits, many larger and better-designed studies have not confirmed these findings.
The supplement may provide minor symptomatic relief for some people with dementia, but it does not prevent or slow the underlying disease process.
More high-quality research is needed to clearly establish whether ginkgo has meaningful benefits for any specific health condition.
Making an Informed Decision
If you’re considering taking ginkgo biloba supplements, keep these points in mind:
Manage Expectations: Despite its popularity and long history of use, scientific evidence for ginkgo’s benefits is limited for most conditions. Don’t expect dramatic improvements in memory, cognition, or other health outcomes.
Consider Safety First: Pay attention to potential side effects and interactions, particularly if you have bleeding disorders, take blood-thinning medications, or have scheduled surgery.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Before starting ginkgo, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications. This is particularly important if you’re considering using ginkgo for any medical condition.
Choose Quality Products: Select standardized ginkgo extracts from reputable manufacturers that have undergone third-party testing.
Monitor Your Response: If you decide to try ginkgo, pay attention to how you feel and whether you experience any side effects. Keep your healthcare provider informed.
Don’t Delay Medical Care: Never use ginkgo as a substitute for proven medical treatments or as a way to avoid seeing a healthcare provider for concerning symptoms.
Conclusion
Ginkgo biloba is one of the most extensively studied herbal supplements, yet questions about its effectiveness for various health conditions remain. While it appears relatively safe for short-term use in healthy adults, the scientific evidence does not strongly support many of its popular uses, particularly for preventing cognitive decline or significantly improving memory in healthy individuals.
The supplement may pose risks for certain individuals, especially those with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications. Interactions with various medications are also a significant concern.
If you’re interested in trying ginkgo biloba, approach it with realistic expectations and prioritize safety. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement is always the wisest course of action. They can help you weigh the potential benefits against the risks based on your individual health situation and provide guidance on whether ginkgo might be appropriate for you.
Remember that maintaining overall health through proven strategies—including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, and staying mentally and socially active—remains the best approach to supporting cognitive function and overall wellness as you age.
Sources:
- Mayo Clinic – Ginkgo
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – Ginkgo
- MedlinePlus – Ginkgo
- National Library of Medicine – Ginkgo Biloba
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions related to your health.
Read the full Disclaimer here →