Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species and its leaves are among the most extensively studied herbs in use today. In Europe and the United States, ginkgo supplements are among the best-selling herbal medications. It consistently ranks as a top medicine prescribed in France and Germany.
Ginkgo biloba tree leaf extract has been used therapeutically in China for millennia. According to fossil records, the ginkgo tree has been around for thousands of years and is one of the oldest still existing tree species on earth. A single tree can live as long as 1,000 years, with some specimens claimed to be more than 2,500 years old. It grow to a height of 120 feet. It has short branches with fan-shaped leaves and inedible fruits that produce a strong odor. The fruit contains an inner seed, and there has been a report of a human poisoning from ingesting the seed. Ginkgos are tough, hardy trees and are sometimes planted along urban streets in the United States. Like ginseng, it is mentioned in the traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia. Ginkgo biloba extracts are among the most widely studied and prescribed drugs in Europe to alleviate symptoms associated with a wide range of conditions. The main indications are in peripheral vascular disease and the therapy of age related cognitive decline. It is also is a mind booster underutilized by the medical profession.
Although Chinese herbal medicine has used both the ginkgo leaf and seed for thousands of years, modern research has focused on the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), which is made from the dried green leaves. This standardized extract is highly concentrated and seems to be more effective in treating health problems (particularly circulatory ailments) than the non-standardized leaf alone.
Ginkgo has been used in traditional medicine to treat blood disorders and enhance memory. Scientific studies throughout the years have found evidence that supports these claims. Although not all studies agree, ginkgo may be help treat dementia (including Alzheimer's disease) and intermittent claudication, or poor circulation in the legs. It also shows promise for enhancing memory in older adults. Laboratory studies have shown that ginkgo improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets.
Ginkgo leaves contain two types of chemicals (flavonoids and terpenoids) believed to have potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals -- compounds in the body that damage cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Free radicals are believed to contribute to health problems including heart disease and cancer as well as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Antioxidants such as those found in ginkgo can help neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.
More than 40 components from the ginkgo tree have been identified, but only two are believed to act as medicine: flavonoids and terpenoids. Flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels, and retina from damage. Terpenoids (such as ginkgolides) improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of platelets.
Ginkgo biloba extract contains many different substances but most of them fall into two main categories: Terpenoid lactones and Flavonoids. The most unique components of ginkgo biloba extracts are the terpene trilactones which are structurally complex molecules. Terpene lactones give ginkgo a bitter and strong flavor. Ginkgolides A, B, C and J, together with bilobalide, are unique terpenoid components of the Ginkgo biloba tree. Ginkgolides have not yet been found in any other living plant species.
Flavonoids are natural substances that are also found in fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids act as antioxidants, have an influence on the immune system, and interfere with tumor formation. Ginkgo biloba extract contains many flavonoids but the most concentrated are kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. Most ginkgo products on the market list a flavonoid concentration of 24%. You will often see 24% printed on packages or bottles of ginkgo.
Other compounds in this herb include proanthocyanidins, carboxylic acids and non-flavone glycosides.
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is available in various potencies, including 24% / 6%, 24% / 4%, 28% / 8%, 30% / 10% ginkgoflavoglycosides / terpene lactones.
Ginkgo biloba appears to benefit some people with memory loss due to aging or Alzheimer's disease, but is probably of little benefit in the young who have normal brain function and memory. Middle aged and older individuals may find the use of ginkgo to be helpful in sharpening the mind and vision.
Because of its antioxidant properties, it may be useful in individuals with cerebrovascular disease. Due to its blood thinning properties, and potential to cause heart rhythm disturbances, a dose of 40 mg a day should not be exceeded on a daily, long-term basis unless a health care provider monitors you. Keep in mind that other nutrients and drugs have blood-thinning properties including Coumadin, aspirin, fish oils, and vinpocetine.
Based on studies conducted in laboratories, animals, and humans, ginkgo is used for the following:
Increased cerebral circulation has been found.
Most, but not all, studies have shown ginkgo biloba extract to thin the blood.
Effects of oral Ginkgo biloba supplementation on cataract formation and oxidative stress occurring in lenses of rats exposed to total cranium radiotherapy.
Ginkgo biloba is an antioxidant that protects the rat lens from radiation-induced cataracts.
Ginkgo biloba extract is able to protect the liver from damage since it has antioxidant properties, prevents lipid peroxidation and replenishes the glutathione level. The benefit may be comparable to that of silymarin from milk thistle.
This condition is when there is hardening and blockages of the arteries. Ginkgo can help to relieve these symptoms by softening the arteries and helping to unblock the blood vessels.
This condition is where the body tissue contains a high amount of fluid. This condition can affect the vessels, and Ginkgo can help to relieve this fluid tension in the blood vessels.
Ginkgo biloba may provide benefit in terms of attention, memory and functioning in multiple sclerosis patients.
Ginkgo is widely used in Europe for treating dementia. It was first used because it improves blood flow to the brain. Now further study suggests it may directly protect nerve cells that are damaged in Alzheimer's disease. A number of studies have found that ginkgo has a positive effect on memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer's or vascular dementia.
Clinical studies suggest that ginkgo may have the following benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease:
Improvement in thinking, learning, and memory (cognitive function)
Improvement in activities of daily living
Improvement in social behavior
Fewer feelings of depression
Several studies have found that ginkgo may work as well as prescription Alzheimer's medications in delaying the symptoms of dementia.
However, one of the longest and best-designed studies found ginkgo was no better than placebo in reducing Alzheimer's symptoms. In a 2008 study, 176 people in the United Kingdom with Alzheimer's took either ginkgo or placebo for 6 months. At the end of the study there was no difference in mental function or quality of life between the groups.
Ginkgo is sometimes suggested to prevent Alzheimer's and dementia, as well, and some studies have suggested it might be helpful. But in 2008, a well-designed study (the GEM study) with more than 3,000 elderly participants found the ginkgo was no better than placebo in preventing dementia or Alzheimer's.
The most commonly promoted benefit is for age related cognitive decline (ARCD) and Alzheimer's disease. Age related cognitive decline is a term that describes a collection of symptoms. These include difficulty in concentration and memory, absent-mindedness, confusion, lack of mental energy, and sometimes, depressive mood. Some of these symptoms may be associated with not enough blood reaching the brain, hence a potential justification for the use of gingko in lessening these symptoms. The theoretical benefit of ginkgo biloba is that it improves communication between nerve cells and enhances blood flow to the brain. It is licensed in Germany for the treatment of ARCD. However, studies have provided mixes results in regards to cognitive benefits of this herbal extract.
Ginkgo is widely touted as a "brain herb." It has been studied to see whether it can improve memory in people with dementia, and some studies found it did help. It's not as clear whether ginkgo helps memory in healthy people who have normal, age-related memory loss. Some studies have found slight benefits, while other studies have found no effect on memory. The most effective dose seems to be 240 mg per day. Ginkgo is commonly added to nutrition bars, soft drinks, and fruit smoothies to boost memory and enhance mental performance, although it's unlikely that such small amounts of ginkgo would work.
Because ginkgo improves blood flow, it has been studied in people with intermittent claudication, or pain caused by reduced blood flow to the legs. People with intermittent claudication have a hard time walking without feeling extreme pain. An analysis of eight studies revealed that people taking ginkgo tend to walk about 34 meters farther than those taking placebo. In fact, ginkgo has been shown to be as effective as a prescription medication in improving pain-free walking distance. However, regular walking exercises work better than ginkgo in improving walking distance.
This condition can cause blood clots and stop or restrict the blood flow to important parts of the body and organs like the heart. Ginkgo can help to stop blood clots forming and help to keep a healthy circulation system. Ginkgo helps to restore the natural blood flow in blocked arteries. It is widely used to help treat conditions where this appears, and studies have shown positive effects that Ginkgo has had as a treatment.
One small study found that people with glaucoma who took 120 mg of ginkgo daily for 8 weeks had improvements in their vision.
The flavonoids found in ginkgo may help stop or lessen some retinal problems -- problems with the back part of the eye. Macular degeneration, often called age-related macular degeneration or ARMD, is an eye disease that affects the retina. It is a progressive, degenerative eye disease that tends to affect older adults and is the number one cause of blindness in the United States. Some studies suggest that ginkgo may help preserve vision in those with ARMD.
Individuals with diabetes mellitus have problems with circulation and increased clotting tendencies, particularly in small blood vessels. This can sometimes lead to poor vision due to small clots that form in the retina of the eye. In a recent study done in Taiwan, ginkgo biloba extract was given to type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with eye problems (retinopathy). After taking it orally for 3 months, the tendency for blood to clot was significantly reduced, red blood cells became more flexible, and blood flow to the retina of the eye was increased. When red blood cells become more flexible, they are able to squeeze through and maneuver easier through tiny blood vessels called capillaries and thus bring more oxygen to tissues and cells.
This condition is when the hands and feet are exposed to the cold and can not warm back up again. This is because the blood vessels are not flowing properly to these extremities. Ginkgo can help to restore the proper blood flow which helps the hands and feet to recover from the cold, helping relieve the symptoms of Reynard's such as pins and needles and numbness.
One well-designed study found that people with Raynaud' s phenomenon who took ginkgo over a 10-week period had fewer symptoms than those who took placebo. More studies are needed.
Ginkgo has also had positive effects on helping people who suffer from vertigo, by relieving the dizziness, and nausea.
This condition causes progressive deafness within younger adults, and is usually inherited. When this condition affects the blood vessels Ginkgo has been known, and suggested to help the blood vessels return to normal reliving some symptoms like tinnitus.
Nerve damage and certain blood vessel disorders can lead to tinnitus -- ringing, hissing, or other sound in the ears or head. Because ginkgo improves circulation, it has been studied to see whether it can treat tinnitus. A few poorly designed studies found it might reduce the loudness of the sound. However, a well-designed study including 1,121 people with tinnitus found that ginkgo was no better than placebo in relieving tinnitus symptoms. In general, tinnitus is a very difficult problem to treat.
Testimonial:
I have found ginkgo biloba to be a wonderful supplement for the treatment of tinnitus (ringing in the ears) that was do to exposure to loud noise as a teenager. I would notice a significant improvement a day or two after taking the gingko biloba (100mg 2x daily 24% standardization) and the ringing would gradually return after I would stop taking them. After using it on and off for several years the problem has faded into the background and they are now unnecessary.
Some studies do show ginkgo biloba benefit for tinnitus, although my clinical experience with this herb for tinnitus has not shown a consistent beneficial response.
The active ingredients are believed to have their beneficial effects by acting as antioxidants, preventing red blood cells and platelets from aggregating to form clots, allowing more oxygen to reach neurons, and improving circulation in tiny blood vessels by inducing relaxation of the muscles surrounding blood vessels. Even circulation to the eyes improves when subjects are given ginkgo.
The correct dosage of Ginkgo Biloba is different for different people, and depends on what you are taking the product for. The majority of the studies done thus far with ginkgo have used daily dosages of 120 mg (50:1 concentration, 24% flavonoids). Patients generally took 40 milligrams three to four times a day. Treatment may be needed for a few weeks before positive results can be fully appreciated. Most manufacturers have pills that contain 40 or 60 mg of ginkgo. You may wish to start with one 40 mg pill a day to see if there is any improvement in memory or thinking. Ginkgo biloba extract is best taken early in the day, and no later than afternoon. Those who take more than one pill may notice adverse reactions.
Many supplement companies will have different strengths of purity of the herb in their tablets. A 500mg strength tablet could contain only 50mg of pure herb extract; this is quite a low dose. While a 6000mg tablet could contain 120mg of pure herb extract, which is a high strength of Ginkgo. To make sure you know the real strength of the Ginkgo you should ask your supplement company or your doctor.
There is no particular strength that is recommended for this product, as lower strengths can work brilliantly for some people and have no effect on others, but you should be careful when taking high doses, and always consult your doctor about what strength to take.
Most people can take Ginkgo Biloba with no problems, but if you experience any side effects you should stop taking the supplement straight away, and consult your doctor. People on any type of medication should always consult their doctor first before taking Ginkgo, and children should only take it when prescribed by a doctor or physician.
Standardized extracts containing 24 - 32% flavonoids (also known as flavone glycosides or heterosides) and 6 - 12% terpenoids (triterpene lactones)
Capsules
Tablets
Liquid extracts (tinctures, fluid extracts, glycerites)
Dried leaf for teas
Pediatric:
Ginkgo is not generally used in children.
Adult:
Initial results often take 4 - 6 weeks, but should grow stronger beyond that period.
Memory impairment and cardiovascular function: Generally, 120 mg daily in divided doses, standardized to contain 24 - 32% flavone glycosides (flavonoids or heterosides) and 6 - 12% triterpene lactones (terpenoids). If more serious dementia or Alzheimer's disease is present, up to 240 mg daily, in 2 or 3 divided doses, may be necessary.
Intermittent claudication: 120 - 240 mg per day
The most common ginkgo biloba side effects are stomach or intestinal complaints, headache, and allergic skin reactions. Sometimes it can cause shallow sleep if taken late in the evening. Heart palpitations can occur with dosages higher than 40 mg. A rare adverse reaction is seizures which are more likely to occur in older individuals. Ginkgo may increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy and could reduce the effectiveness of anti-seizure drugs.
An infrequent but potentially serious consequence is internal bleeding when it is combined with other blood thinners such as aspirin or Coumadin (and even ibuprofen). Ginkgo biloba extract has anti-platelet activity and hence may prolong the time it takes to form a blood clot. However, a study published in 2003 indicates that Coenzyme Q10 and Ginkgo biloba do not influence the clinical effect of warfarin. An additional study did not find ginkgo to alter platelet function or coagulation time. Just to be cautious, at this time those who take aspirin or Coumadin should be very careful and discuss with their doctor before they use this herbal extract or any product that contains ginkgo.
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain components that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.
Ginkgo usually has few side effects. In a few cases, stomach upset, headaches, skin reactions, and dizziness were reported.
There have been a number of reports of internal bleeding in people who take ginkgo. However, it's not clear whether the bleeding was due to ginkgo or some other reasons, such as a combination of ginkgo and blood-thinning drugs. Researchers aren't sure, because different studies have found different results. People on blood thinning medication should consult their doctor before taking Ginkgo as it can help to thin the blood, which could cause serious problems. Also people who are waiting for surgery or any dental operations should not take Ginkgo Biloba due to the same reasons that it helps to thin the blood, causing excessive bleeding. You should stop taking it at least 36 hours before surgery or dental procedures due to the risk of bleeding. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take ginkgo.
You should always consult your doctor or physician before taking Ginkgo Biloba if you are on any medication, to assure that it is safe to take with that drug or drugs.
People who have epilepsy should not take ginkgo, because there is concern that it might cause seizures.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take ginkgo.
People who have diabetes should ask their doctor before taking ginkgo.
Do not eat Ginkgo biloba fruit or seed.
Ginkgo may interact with some prescription and non-prescription medications. If you are taking any of the following medications, you should not use ginkgo without first talking to your health care provider:
Medications metabolized by the liver -- Ginkgo can interact with some medications that are processed through the liver. If you take any prescription medications, ask your doctor before taking ginkgo.
Seizure medications (anticonvulsants) -- High doses of ginkgo could make drugs to control seizures, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) or valproic acid (Depakote), less effective.
Antidepressants -- Taking ginkgo along with a kind of antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. Ginkgo may strengthen both the good and bad effects of antidepressant medications known as MAOIs, such as phenelzine (Nardil). SSRIs include:
Citalopram (Celexa)
Escitalopram (Lexapro)
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
Paroxetine (Paxil)
Sertraline (Zoloft)
Medications for high blood pressure -- Ginkgo may lower blood pressure, so taking it with blood pressure medications may cause blood pressure to drop too low. There has been a report of an interaction between ginkgo and nifedipine (Procardia), a calcium channel blocker used for blood pressure and arrhythmias.
Blood-thinning medications -- Ginkgo may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood-thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) -- Like ginkgo, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen also raises the risk of bleeding. There has been bleeding in the brain reported when using a ginkgo product and ibuprofen.
Medications to lower blood sugar -- Ginkgo may raise or lower insulin levels and blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, you should not use ginkgo without first talking to your doctor.
Cylosporine -- Ginkgo biloba may help protect the cells of the body during treatment with the drug cyclosporine, which suppresses the immune system.
Thiazide diuretics (water pills) -- There is one report of a person who took a thiazide diuretic and ginkgo developing high blood pressure. If you take thiazide diuretics, ask your doctor before taking ginkgo.
Trazodone -- There is one report of an elderly Alzheimer's patient going into a coma after taking ginkgo and trazodone (Desyrel), an antidepressant medication.
Here are some reviews taken from two different famous Internet websites which further highlights some of the health benefits and side effects of using Ginkgo Biloba:
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Reason for taking: Cognitive function
11/4/2011 11:41:34 AM
Reviewer: Fibrofog, 35-44 Female on Treatment for 6 months to less than 1 year (Consumer)
Effectiveness: Current Rating: 4
Ease of Use: Current Rating: 5
Satisfaction: Current Rating: 5
Comment:
My parents started taking this a number of years ago. When I started noticing my memory and recall ability dwindling, I started taking it also. I have noticed my ability to recall words is better. My memory isn't perfect, but it is better.
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Reason for taking: Tinnitus
10/4/2011 5:36:12 PM
Reviewer: Bob, 65-74 Male on Treatment for 10 years or more (Consumer)
Effectiveness: Current Rating: 5
Ease of Use: Current Rating: 5
Satisfaction: Current Rating: 5
Comment:
Lacking symptoms is not always noticed, but after about six months I suddenly realized I no longer had the "ringing" in my ears.
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Reason for taking: Schizophrenia
8/8/2011 10:12:14 PM
Reviewer: Sienna46, 25-34 Female on Treatment for 6 months to less than 1 year (Consumer)
Effectiveness: Current Rating: 4
Ease of Use: Current Rating: 4
Satisfaction: Current Rating: 5
Comment:
My psychiatrist recommended Ginko Biloba when I wanted to introduce a natural remedy for schizophrenia (along with Ambilify). At first I took it by itself and then through SBX. I got a lot better and reduced the Ambilify but because SBX conains more than just Ginko Biloba it probably wasn't just down to the Ginko Bilboa. I would definate recomment Ginko though.
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51 of 56 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars Good Product If Used With Caution, October 17, 2010
By
Jerry A (Los Angeles, CA)
This product arrived on time, packaged well, and without any hitches. I will advise on the dangers of taking 500 mg of a blood thinner daily however. Most commercial Ginkgo comes in 60 and 120 mg doses, and it is for a reason. Do not take this product daily, however rotate weeks where you do take it. Thinning your blood in order to increase memory and prowess is a good philosophy, but you must work in moderation. Exercise caution with this product.
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4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Very Helpful, May 19, 2011
By
R. Shah "Tester" (Hackettstown, NJ USA)
I'm 50+ years young and I had hard time concentrating on anything. I started taking once a day the Ginkgo Biloba Extract 60 mg from last five years and it is helping me in staying focused and well organized. I remember things very easily. I had stopped taking the capsules for about three weeks just to see the effect. I experienced that I was feeling disoriented and did not feel like doing anything. I started the capsules again and in few days I was back to normal feeling energized.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Very helpful with Cognitive Issues, September 5, 2011
By
Jennifer "Jennifer" (MA)
I purchased this item for my father-in-law, who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, on the advice of his neurologist. My initial thought was that this just wasn't going to help, but thankfully I was wrong. This particular Ginkgo Biloba Extract did seem to work better than the generic stuff they were purchasing and the big "box" stores. After a few months, his Dr. saw much improvement on his cognitive tests and there was improvement on his ability to store and communicate information. I have purchased 2 more months worth and will continue to repurchase as needed. Great product with very fast shipping at an incredibly reasonable price.
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24 of 27 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Simply the BEST!!!, April 27, 2010
By
Alice Kathleen Vigil
Although most of the current studies claim that Ginko does nothing to improve memory, I beg to differ. I'd taken a supplement back in the 1990s that had a high dosage (300+ mg), but it was discontinued and replaced with a product with a lower dose. Unfortunately, most of the products on the market have such a low dose that I don't notice any benefit---unless I took a large number of capsules---in which case, it could get pretty expensive. I was thrilled to find this product on Amazon, at such a reasonable price. The 500 mg gives me the dosage I want. In addition, the company mailed this in record time. I received it only three business days after ordering.
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars its good but intense.. use caution, September 13, 2011
By
marceldia
i've been trying to find the best combo for my adult ADD and am still trying to tweak it out but feel like taking this stuff once in a while can't hurt and can get vital nutrients to my brain more easily because it thins the blood (dont quote me on that -- not a doctor!) but the first few times i took it it did make me a little lightheaded, and i could definitely tell that there were some blood changes going on in my body. Its almost like i could taste my gums as having more blood flow.. I'm currently taking this with PS and i think the PS works wonders by itself but i am still experimenting with throwing in a pill of the ginkgo every once in a while. This is a good supplementary pill, but its not a magic pill. I might update more as i try different combinations of fish oil and vitamin Bs. The point is that i have been able to keep away from the ritalin as a result of trying these natural supplements. Im actually all about some Ritalin, BUT surprisingly i think this might work better, and if I can improve myself in anyway- (so that i can make it through my second try at college), bring it on!
:)
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Reason for taking: Alzheimer's disease
7/22/2011 6:35:24 PM
Reviewer: loiveg, 55-64 Female on Treatment for 6 months to less than 1 year (Consumer)
Effectiveness: Current Rating: 5
Ease of Use: Current Rating: 5
Satisfaction: Current Rating: 5
Comment:
After being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease over 5 years ago, I took Aricept. Last year, I started taking Ginkgo, and it seems to work as well for me as the Aricept did.
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Reason for taking: Memory
12/24/2009 2:06:05 PM
Reviewer: marine145, 65-74 Male on Treatment for 10 years or more (Consumer)
Effectiveness: Current Rating: 5
Ease of Use: Current Rating: 5
Satisfaction: Current Rating: 5
Comment:
I used to have a big problem with short term memory. For example, in filling out 3 page invoice forms, I would likely leave out either shipping address on at least one of 3 pages, or shippers name and address. After I started using Ginko these went away. Also a lower leg circulation issue improved almost a 100 %! Very pleased.
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