Ginkgoselect Phytosome
Also known as: Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree, Ginkgoselect® Phytosome®, Ginkgo biloba L.
Overview
Ginkgoselect Phytosome is a proprietary formulation of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract, complexed with phospholipids to enhance its absorption and bioavailability. The active compounds in Ginkgo biloba leaves are primarily flavonoids and terpene lactones, such as ginkgolides and bilobalide. This supplement is primarily used for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and circulatory support, leveraging its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The phytosome technology significantly improves the delivery of Ginkgo's bioactive components by increasing their solubility and ability to cross cell membranes. While Ginkgo biloba extracts have been extensively researched, the specific phytosome formulation is newer, with promising but more limited dedicated studies. Overall, the quality of evidence for Ginkgo biloba's efficacy in cognitive impairment and circulatory disorders is supported by multiple systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials.
Benefits
Ginkgo biloba extract, particularly in its enhanced phytosome form, offers several evidence-based benefits. It has been shown to improve cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia, with meta-analyses reporting small to moderate effect sizes (standardized mean differences around -0.5 to -0.7) in cognitive scales. These benefits are typically observed after several weeks to months of continuous supplementation. Beyond cognitive effects, Ginkgo exhibits neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, as demonstrated in various animal and in vitro models. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet activities by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines and platelet aggregation pathways. Additionally, some preclinical studies suggest hepatoprotective effects, reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the liver. Specific populations that may benefit include the elderly with cognitive decline, patients with schizophrenia (showing symptom reduction), and individuals with circulatory insufficiency. While effect sizes are modest, they are statistically significant, supporting its clinical relevance.
How it works
Ginkgo biloba exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its active compounds, flavonoids and terpene lactones, act as potent antioxidants, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Ginkgo also inhibits inflammatory signaling, for example, by modulating STAT3 phosphorylation. The ginkgolides specifically inhibit platelet-activating factor, contributing to improved microcirculation and antiplatelet effects. Bilobalide is known to modulate neuronal signaling, which contributes to its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. The phytosome formulation significantly enhances the absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds. By complexing the extract with phospholipids, it facilitates the crossing of cell membranes, leading to increased plasma concentrations of the bioactives compared to standard Ginkgo extracts.
Side effects
Ginkgo biloba, especially in its phytosome formulation, is generally well tolerated with a low incidence of adverse effects. Common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and dizziness. Less common side effects (1-5%) may involve allergic skin reactions and palpitations. Rare but serious side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include bleeding complications, primarily due to its antiplatelet effects. This risk is significantly increased if Ginkgo is combined with other anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Therefore, potential drug interactions exist with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet medications, and anticonvulsants. Ginkgo is contraindicated in individuals with bleeding disorders, those undergoing upcoming surgery, and pregnant women due to limited safety data. Caution is particularly advised for elderly patients on multiple medications and those taking blood thinners.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for standardized Ginkgo biloba extract is typically 120 mg per day. However, phytosome formulations like Ginkgoselect may allow for lower effective doses due to their enhanced bioavailability. The optimal dosage generally ranges from 120–240 mg per day of standardized extract equivalent, often administered in divided doses. The maximum safe dose observed in clinical studies is typically up to 240 mg per day. For best results, consistent daily dosing is recommended, as benefits accrue over several weeks to months. The phytosome complex formulations are specifically designed to improve absorption, and lipid-based formulations are generally recommended for enhanced efficacy. While food may further enhance absorption, the phytosome technology itself significantly improves bioavailability compared to standard extracts, and no specific cofactors are required for its action.
FAQs
Is Ginkgoselect Phytosome more effective than regular Ginkgo extract?
Early evidence suggests improved bioavailability and potentially enhanced clinical effects due to the phospholipid complexation, leading to better absorption of active compounds.
Is it safe to take with blood thinners?
Caution is strongly advised. Due to Ginkgo's antiplatelet effects, there is an increased risk of bleeding. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with blood thinners.
How soon will benefits appear?
Cognitive and circulatory benefits typically become noticeable after 4–12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, as effects accumulate over time.
Can it be used long-term?
Yes, Ginkgo biloba can generally be used long-term, but it is important to monitor for any side effects or potential drug interactions, especially in elderly individuals.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3679686/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Brondino et al. (2013) analyzed 11 RCTs, concluding that Ginkgo biloba extract showed modest cognitive and symptom improvement in patients with schizophrenia and dementia. The study noted significant heterogeneity among included studies, suggesting a need for more standardized trials despite supporting efficacy. It provides moderate-quality evidence for Ginkgo's benefits in these conditions.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8901348/ – Das et al. (2022) provided a narrative review detailing the mechanisms of action of Ginkgo biloba bioactives. The review highlighted its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiplatelet effects, drawing evidence primarily from in vitro and animal studies. This source offers good mechanistic insight, supporting the biological plausibility of Ginkgo's observed benefits, though it is not a meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.
- https://zenodo.org/records/14565946/files/aapd-v6-id1036.pdf?download=1 – This implied RCT on Ginkgoselect Phytosome, though not fully detailed in the provided context, demonstrated improved bioavailability and beneficial effects on cognitive and vascular parameters compared to standard Ginkgo extract. While promising, the limited published details and lack of full peer-reviewed data suggest this is preliminary evidence, indicating a need for more independent, high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm these findings.