Nicknamed the living fossil tree, ginkgo biloba has been around for 200 million years. Its leaves and seeds were an ancient remedy, used for millennia to treat dozens of ailments. But its medicinal value was only acknowledged by modern clinicians in the last few decades.
Sources say it can heal wounds, improve your vision, memory and concentration, improve blood circulation, and reduce depression. It was also the first treatment for asthma in traditional Chinese medicine.
But does folk medicine belong in the past? Or was ancient wisdom right all this time?
Here we delve into the facts about ginkgo, and bring answers to light for you.
Key Takeaways: Ginkgo Biloba
- Ginkgo biloba has been used for thousands of years due to its many claimed health benefits.
- Effects of ginkgo biloba are said to support lowering blood pressure, positively impact mental health, respiratory health and detoxify cells.
- It could be a cognitive enhancer due to its neuroprotective effects, helping with memory retention.
- Further research is needed for the use of ginkgo biloba to prevent dementia.
- Ginkgo comes in many forms and you should know how to use it properly.
- There are many possible side effects of taking ginkgo biloba, especially if you are epileptic or taking blood thinner medication.
Overview: Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a tree native to China also known as the maidenhair tree. Now, it is considered a medicinal tree and is one of the most popular herbal supplements in the world.
It’s been said to have an array of incredible uses during its long history, that include:
- Healing skin
- Improving circulation
- Treating vertigo
- Helping with sexual dysfunction
Ginkgo is most often associated with brain health, granting it claims to an array of cognitive benefits, and improvements in mental wellbeing [1].
The alleged health benefits have attracted attention from supplement companies and clinicians in recent years. Its bioactive compounds have been tested, assessing how the dietary supplement can be used to improve the lives of those with impairments and benefit the wellbeing of healthy people [1].
History
The ginkgo biloba tree has prehistoric roots—it’s thought to look the same as it did when dinosaurs were on earth. The living trees are themselves ancient; a ginkgo tree in China is estimated to be 3,500 years old [2]!
Its medicinal uses were recorded in Chinese medicine about 2,000 years ago. Ancient botanists experimented first with ginkgo seeds, later to discover its leaves could play an important function in treating major health problems, like lung and heart disease [3].
The tree’s healing properties were neglected for a long time, until 1964 when it caught the eye of a scientist. Since then, ginkgo biloba extracts have been introduced in modern and alternative medicine to support cognition, memory, and reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety [3].
How Does It Work?
There are many active ingredients of clinical importance contained in ginkgo biloba, especially in its seeds and leaves.
Ginkgo seeds have recently been discovered to have potent antibacterial properties that can treat acne. This was an important finding for the development of topical medicines for people with psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema [3].
Its leaves have major antioxidant compounds with neuroprotective effects. They have the ability to remove free radicals from the body, which are harmful molecules that occur everywhere, both naturally and from toxins in the atmosphere. Our bodies require support to clear themselves from free radicals before they damage cells [4].
The active components in ginkgo biloba leaves can also support the cardiovascular system by improving circulation, strengthening the walls of small blood vessels, reducing high blood pressure, and preventing blood clotting. Stimulating blood flow can help protect nerve cells if they do not have enough oxygen [4].
Extracts of the herb may also promote wound healing, have benefits for the respiratory system, concentration problems and help to sharpen up memory [4].
Due to its uses for brain health, it was tested as a hopeful treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. But antioxidants alone do not appear adequate for impacting serious neurological issues like Alzheimer’s disease [4].
Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba could have the following 10 health benefits:
- Boosts brain function and memory
- Improves anxiety and depression
- Reduces symptoms of psychiatric diseases
- Improves heart health and circulation
- Relieves premenstrual symptoms
- Reduces vertigo
- Supports vision and eye health
- Fights inflammation
- Improves asthma and symptoms of COPD
- Contains powerful antioxidants
Boosts Brain Function and Memory
Ginkgo biloba extract is said to have therapeutic benefits, especially for improving memory and cognition [5].
Its antioxidant effect gives it a neuroprotective factor, which is what is thought to improve memory. Protecting brain cells can support brain health, naturally helping sharpen up the mind, especially in otherwise healthy individuals looking for a boost [4].
We should not put too much faith in the herb for treating cognitive impairment, though. Although it can support brain function to a point, ginkgo biloba extract is not meant to be touted as a treatment for serious cognitive issues caused by stroke, or as a reliable way to reduce cognitive decline caused by Alzheimer’s disease [4].
Improves Anxiety and Depression
Ginkgo biloba extract can help the brain to balance hormones, and thereby, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, according to science [6].
It was shown to effectively improve the mental health of older adults who had depressive symptoms. When combined with other antidepressant medications, taking ginkgo can magnify the therapeutic benefits of psychiatric drugs according to the study [7].
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3679686/
Reduces Symptoms of Psychiatric Diseases
Ginkgo is meant to be helpful for psychiatric patients for two reasons: firstly, it is said to be therapeutic for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia. This is because it can stabilize hormones in the brain, improving focus.
Second, it has been examined as a way to reduce neural damage caused by psychiatric drugs—a side effect often seen in patients who have been medicated for a long time [8].
A side effect of antidepressants is antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction—the healing and relaxing effect of ginkgo could be one way to help improve symptoms [9].
Improves Heart Health and Circulation
Ginkgo has anticoagulant properties—meaning the active ingredients can act as blood thinners, stopping blood from clotting and improving blood flow. The extract has also been used as a way to improve circulation in people who experience cold hands and feet [10].
Another circulatory problem, called intermittent claudication, is when blood clots in the legs. The condition is common among older adults and can be very painful. As a blood thinner, Ginkgo has been tested as a treatment for the condition, and although it makes a difference to the symptoms, scientists say, not to a clinically significant degree [11].
Overall, the anticoagulant effect can improve vein health, positively impacting the cardiovascular system. Another effect of biloba is the dilation of blood vessels, which can reduce high blood pressure and support blood flow [12].
The herb has been known to improve sexual dysfunction for this reason also. Because it can improve circulation, it’s been said to increase blood flow to the penis, and is likely to support sexual function for women, too [13].
Relieves Premenstrual Symptoms
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial with women suffering from severe PMS showed that ginkgo extract significantly reduces the physical and psychological effects [14].
Premenstrual syndrome affects millions of women and can cause serious discomfort. Research on the positive impact of ginkgo was seen as a significant finding for the support of women with painful PMS. Ginkgo’s ability to improve PMS is likely due to its support with balancing hormones in the brain [14].
Reduces Vertigo
Vertigo is a feeling of dizziness and nausea caused by damage to nerves that connect to the inner ear. It can be a side effect of people who suffered a stroke [15].
Although ginkgo’s been tested as a way to treat vertigo, it’s unclear if the extract has a significant impact on the condition. A couple of small-scale studies have assessed the impact—some found noticeable improvements but others found no difference between the placebo group and the group taking standardized ginkgo [16] [17].
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4099171/
Supports Vision and Eye Health
Sharp vision relies on healthy nerves and good blood circulation. Due to ginkgo’s alleged impact on those areas of health, it is said to improve people’s vision and eyesight. There’s some research in this regard with glaucoma patients [18].
Age-related macular degeneration, which means the deterioration of sight with age, is another possible area of research with ginkgo extract.
Fights Inflammation
Inflammation of neurons and the nervous system is the body’s reaction to damage caused by toxins, viruses, and injury. Left untreated, inflammation can cause damage to cells. The anti-inflammatory effects of ginkgo can help prevent damage [4].
Improves Asthma and Symptoms of COPD
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are complex and unique respiratory conditions, however, a key cause of both is chronic inflammation in the lungs [19]. Anti-inflammatory therapies, like ginkgo, are central to long-term asthma management, according to experts [20].
Research shows that ginkgo biloba extract may be used as a complement to steroid treatment for asthma [21].
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6264276/
Contains Powerful Antioxidants
As explored in other sections, there’s a fair amount of evidence showing the antioxidant power of ginkgo biloba extract and leaves. The ability to reduce oxidative stress, which is damage to neurons caused by toxins, is the reason it has memory and mind-boosting qualities [22].
Ginkgo nuts are good for detoxing, and a popular ingredient in Chinese cooking.
Roasted ginkgo seeds are shown to have antioxidant power comparable with ginkgo biloba standardized extract, dried leaf extracts, and commercial ginkgo capsules [23].
The Best Ginkgo Biloba Memory Nootropics
Did we mention, ginkgo is a popular nootropic ingredient? There are various nootropic stacks blended as nootropics for motivation and nootropics for memory. Here we provide a summary of some leading brands producing ginkgo biloba supplements.
Qualia Mind
Qualia Mind is said to be a winner for both physical and mental performance. It contains five nootropic herbal ingredients, seven neuro-boosting vitamins, six adaptogens, five amino acids, and choline, which is important for brain and cell health. Most of the ingredients, like ginkgo, are likely to help you concentrate and improve your memory.
Pros
- Sharpens up memory
- Boosts mental energy
- Reputable brand
- Contains many B vitamins
Cons
- Dozens of ingredients; unclear if all of them are equally beneficial
- Expensive
BrainPill
Besides ginkgo, BrainPill dietary supplements include vitamins, amino acids, and other nootropic compounds such as l-theanine, which is great for boosting memory. The ingredients are said to have other benefits too, such as reducing cognitive decline.
Pros
- Improves memory
- Reduces brain fog
- Relatively affordable
- Simple dosage instructions
Cons
- Contains only four nootropic ingredients. The average blend would contain around ten herbs
Check out our comprehensive BrainPill review to read more about this leading popular nootropic.
If you’re a serious neurohacker and shopping around for the best supplement, read our research on other products via the Mind Lab Pro review and Performance Lab Nootropics review. They include more information about nootropics and alternatives to ginkgo products.
How To Take Ginkgo Biloba
Depending on your preference and needs, you can take ginkgo in a few different forms, including:
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Liquid extracts
- Leaves and teas
- Topically
- In blended nootropic supplements/stacks
Dosing
In studies, healthy adults have safely taken between 120 mg – 240 mg a day in divided doses.
How Much Ginkgo Biloba Should I Take for Memory?
Tried and tested dosages for patients who have memory problems and mild cognitive impairment is 120mg – 240 mg daily, taken in two to three doses [24].
Ginkgo Biloba Side Effects
Common side effects of ginkgo biloba:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness / Weakness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nausea/vomiting
Unusual side effects of ginkgo:
- Seizures
- Allergic skin reactions
- Bleeding disorders
- Dermatitis from contact with skin
- Impaired fertility [25]
- Restlessness
- Stomach upset
- Subdural hematoma or higher risk of stroke
- Ventricular arrhythmia/palpitations
- Spontaneous bleeding [26]
The serious side effects listed here are rare, especially in healthy adults. However, there is a chance that they’re underreported, so further research about them is needed [26].
Use of ginkgo biloba should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Precautions and Warnings
Ginkgo biloba comes with various precautions and warnings because it can prevent blood clotting and has a potentially toxic effect on the body. To ensure that it’s right for you, take note:
It’s not advisable to take ginkgo when pregnant or breastfeeding, and if taken close to childbirth it can cause excess bleeding when in labor. For the same reason, anyone who is about to undergo surgery should avoid taking ginkgo biloba [24].
More research is needed to fully understand the effects during pregnancy and on breast milk.
People who take blood thinners, either as pain relief or for a cardiovascular issue, should avoid ginkgo supplements due to its anticoagulant effects. Doubling up on these drugs may cause a potentially dangerous bleeding disorder [24].
Ginkgo nuts can be poisonous and should never be eaten raw. Cooked and roasted ginkgo nuts can be eaten but should always be prepared well.
Seizure threshold lowering drugs, such as ginkgo, can create conditions in the brain that bring on seizures. It is particularly risky for those who are already prone to seizures, like epileptic individuals.
When it comes into contact with the skin, ginkgo has been known to cause allergic skin reactions that has developed into contact dermatitis [26].
Research with animals shows ginkgo is a possible carcinogen, which means the seeds and leaves can be toxic at high doses [25].
Interactions
There are various possible interactions with ginkgo and other drugs, mostly with anti-platelet drugs or blood-thinning medications [24].
Certain antidepressants can also interact with ginkgo biloba, possibly making them more or less effective. Taking ginkgo with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially fatal reaction [27].
Taking ginkgo biloba should always be done in consultation with a physician, especially if you are already prescribed medication.
Who Should Not Take Ginkgo Biloba?
The following people should avoid taking ginkgo altogether:
- Anyone taking blood thinners
- Children
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Epileptic people
FAQ
The effects of ginkgo biloba are almost as rich as its long history! Let’s make it shorter and answer your commonly asked questions:
Is Ginkgo Biloba Safe for Long Term Use?
The answer to this is unclear as further research is needed regarding the long-term effects of taking ginkgo supplements. However, ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe by physicians, unless you are pregnant, epileptic, or taking certain drugs.
Does Ginkgo Biloba Improve Memory?
Yes, it could! Evidence points to improved memory as ginkgo’s key possible benefit.
Can Ginkgo Cause Stroke?
It’s very unlikely, but there’s some anecdotal evidence that people taking ginkgo have also had ischemic attacks [27].
How Long Does Ginkgo Biloba Take to Kick In?
As with most nootropics, you can expect to take the herbal supplement for at least a few weeks before getting the full effects.
Is Ginkgo Biloba Good for the Heart?
Yes, possibly. Improving circulation and dilating blood vessels are effects of ginkgo that are conducive to a healthy heart. It can also reduce blood pressure, another way of lowering strain on the cardiovascular system and heart.
Conclusion
Ginkgo has some wonderful and powerful health benefits, reinforcing the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine from its ancient past. For its neuro benefits alone, it’s tempting to try it, but just ensure you’re doing it right.
As discussed in this article, it has strong effects on the body and a few possible interactions. A medical professional should always be consulted before you start taking ginkgo biloba.
References
- Isah, Tasiu. “Rethinking Ginkgo Biloba L.: Medicinal Uses and Conservation.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557237/.
- Gingko, www.bellarmine.edu/faculty/drobinson/Gingko.asp#:~:text=It%20supposedly%20has%20been%20around,comes%20from%20a%20Japanese%20origin.
- Chassagne, François, et al. “Validation of a 16th Century Traditional Chinese Medicine Use of Ginkgo Biloba as a TOPICAL ANTIMICROBIAL.” Frontiers, Frontiers, 1 Jan. 1AD, www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2019.00775/full.
- Singh, Sandeep Kumar, et al. “Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract against Ad and Other Neurological Disorders.” Neurotherapeutics : the Journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, Springer International Publishing, July 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6694352/.
- R;, Field BH;Vadnal. “Ginkgo Biloba and Memory: An Overview.” Nutritional Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27414695/.
- Banin, Renata Mancini, et al. “Ginkgo Biloba Extract (GBE) ATTENUATES Obesity and Anxious/Depressive-like Behaviours Induced BY OVARIECTOMY.” Nature News, Nature Publishing Group, 8 Jan. 2021, www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-78528-3?utm_source=other&utm_medium=other&utm_content=null&utm_campaign=JRCN_1_LW01_CN_SCIREP_article_paid_XMOL.
- Dai, Chun-Xiao, et al. “Role of Ginkgo Biloba Extract as an Adjunctive Treatment of Elderly Patients with Depression and on the Expression of Serum s100b.” Medicine, Wolters Kluwer Health, Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6181482/.
- Therapeutic Use of Ginkgo Biloba. opencommons.uconn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=som_articles&httpsredir=1&referer=.
- Wheatley D. Ginkgo biloba in the treatment of sexual dysfunction due to antidepressant drugs. Hum Psychopharmacol. 1999;14:512–513. [Google Scholar]
- CS;, Roland PD;Nergård. “[Ginkgo Biloba—Effect, Adverse Events and Drug Interaction].” Tidsskrift for Den Norske Laegeforening : Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin, Ny Raekke, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22562327/.
- Nicolaï SP;Gerardu VC;Kruidenier LM;Prins MH;Teijink JA; “From the Cochrane Library: Ginkgo Biloba for Intermittent Claudication.” VASA. Zeitschrift Fur Gefasskrankheiten, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20464671/.
- Wu, Yu-Zhou, et al. “Ginkgo Biloba Extract Improves Coronary Artery Circulation in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: Contribution of Plasma Nitric Oxide and Endothelin‐1.” Wiley Online Library, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, 29 Apr. 2008, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2335.
- Meston, Cindy M, et al. “Short- and Long-Term Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on Sexual Dysfunction in Women.” Archives of Sexual Behavior, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2863090/.
- Ozgoli, Giti, et al. “A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Ginkgo Biloba L. in Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome.” Libertpub.com, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary MedicineVol. 15, No. 8, 13 Aug. 2009.
- Kim, Ji Soo, and Hyung Lee. “Posterior Circulation Stroke and Vestibular Syndromes.” Oxford Medicine Online, Oxford University Press, oxfordmedicine.com/view/10.1093/med/9780199608997.001.0001/med-9780199608997-chapter-23.
- Cesarani A;Meloni F;Alpini D;Barozzi S;Verderio L;Boscani PF; “Ginkgo Biloba (Egb 761) in the Treatment of Equilibrium Disorders.” Advances in Therapy, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10345150/.
- Sokolova, Larysa, et al. “Treatment of Vertigo: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial Comparing Efficacy and Safety of Ginkgo Biloba Extract EGB 761 and Betahistine.” International Journal of Otolaryngology, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4099171/.
- Quaranta L;Bettelli S;Uva MG;Semeraro F;Turano R;Gandolfo E; “Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on Preexisting Visual Field Damage in Normal Tension Glaucoma.” Ophthalmology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12578781/.
- Zhang, P.F., et al. “Recent Developments in the Mechanism of Ginkgo Biloba Extract in the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.” 万方数据知识服务平台, May 2017, d.wanfangdata.com.cn/periodical/ChlQZXJpb2RpY2FsQ0hJTmV3UzIwMjEwOTA5Eg96Z3FreXgyMDE3MTUwMjQaCDR0OHk2eXBw.
- Chu, Xiao, et al. “A Novel Anti-Inflammatory Role FOR Ginkgolide B in Asthma via Inhibition of THE ERK/MAPK Signaling Pathway.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 6 Sept. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6264276/.
- Tang, Yijun, et al. “The Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on the Expression of Pkcα in the Inflammatory Cells and the Level of Il-5 in Induced Sputum of Asthmatic Patients.” Current Medical Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11596-007-0407-4.
- Lejri, Imane, et al. “Mitochondria- and Oxidative Stress-Targeting Substances in Cognitive Decline-Related Disorders: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Evidence.” Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi, 12 May 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6535827/.
- “Antioxidant Capacity in Ginkgo Biloba.” ResearchGate, www.researchgate.net/publication/223257304_Antioxidant_capacity_in_Ginkgo_biloba.
- Sierpina, Victor S, et al. “Ginkgo Biloba.” Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 68, ser. 5, 1 Sept. 2003, pp. 923–928. 5.
- “Making Fertility-Friendly Lifestyle Choices.” Harvard Health, 25 Mar. 2017, www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/making-fertility-friendly-lifestyle-choices#:~:text=Researchers%20at%20Loma%20Linda%20University,and%20reduced%20a%20sperm’s%20viability.
- Mei, Nan, et al. “Review of Ginkgo Biloba-Induced Toxicity, from Experimental Studies to Human Case Reports.” Journal of Environmental Science and Health. Part C, Environmental Carcinogenesis & Ecotoxicology Reviews, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2 Jan. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6373469/.
- M;, Woroń J;Siwek. “Unwanted Effects of Psychotropic Drug Interactions with Medicinal Products and Diet Supplements Containing Plant Extracts.” Psychiatria Polska, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30659561/.
Leave a Reply