Ginkgo biloba has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is commonly taken as a tablet or capsule, particularly for conditions related to brain function and blood circulation. Research on its effectiveness for many uses is inconclusive, but some studies suggest potential benefits for certain conditions.
Brain and cognitive function
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: Some reviews and studies have found that ginkgo may offer modest improvements in cognitive function, daily activities, and neuropsychiatric symptoms for people with mild-to-moderate dementia, especially at doses of 240 mg per day for at least 5 to 6 months. However, large, long-term studies like the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) study found no benefit for preventing dementia in older adults with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment.
- Memory: While often marketed as a memory enhancer, consistent evidence is lacking. Some early research showed slight improvements in memory for healthy adults, but other large studies found no measurable improvements in memory or attention.
- Post-stroke cognitive decline: A 2023 trial found that 240 mg of ginkgo per day improved cognitive function in patients recovering from a mild-to-moderate ischemic stroke.
Mental health
- Anxiety: Some studies suggest that ginkgo may help reduce anxiety, possibly due to its antioxidant content. A trial involving patients with generalized anxiety disorder found that those taking ginkgo had more significant reductions in anxiety symptoms than those taking a placebo.
- Depression: Research indicates ginkgo may have a mood-regulating effect, and some studies have shown benefits when used alongside antidepressant medication. A 2024 review found it might reduce the risk or symptoms of depression, and a 2018 study noted that it improved depressive symptoms when paired with a conventional antidepressant.
- Schizophrenia: Ginkgo may help reduce some negative symptoms of schizophrenia and could help manage side effects from antipsychotic medications.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.