Organic Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract
Also known as: Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree, Organic Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, EGb 761, Ginkgo biloba
Overview
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is derived from the dried leaves of the *Ginkgo biloba* tree, one of the oldest living tree species. The extract is standardized to contain specific amounts of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are considered the active compounds. It is traditionally used to improve cognitive function, memory, and circulation, and is commonly applied in cases of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD), dementia, and circulatory disorders. Ginkgo contains antioxidant flavonoids and terpene lactones and is thought to improve blood flow and protect neurons. Research maturity is moderate to high, with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, especially focusing on cognitive outcomes and some other conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The quality of evidence is mixed but generally supportive for cognitive benefits in mild dementia, but less conclusive for other indications.
Benefits
Ginkgo biloba extract has shown promise in improving cognitive function and dementia symptoms. Meta-analyses indicate that Ginkgo biloba extract combined with donepezil hydrochloride significantly improves cognitive function in dementia patients compared to donepezil alone. EGb 761 has been shown to improve cognition, activities of daily living, and global assessment scores in mild dementia patients. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba extract has demonstrated potential benefits in improving respiratory function in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). A systematic review and meta-analysis showed that Ginkgo biloba extract significantly improved pulmonary function parameters, arterial oxygenation, and reduced inflammatory and fibrosis markers in IPF patients. Studies have found no significant increase in adverse events or bleeding risk with standardized Ginkgo biloba extract use.
How it works
Ginkgo biloba works through several biological pathways. Its antioxidant activity, attributed to flavonoids, scavenges free radicals. It improves microcirculation through vasodilation and inhibition of platelet-activating factor. Ginkgo also exerts neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Molecularly, it acts as a platelet-activating factor receptor antagonist, modulates neurotransmitter systems, and reduces anti-inflammatory cytokines. Oral bioavailability is moderate, and standardized extracts like EGb 761 ensure consistent levels of active compounds.
Side effects
Ginkgo biloba is generally safe when used at recommended doses. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and dizziness. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include allergic skin reactions. Rare side effects, seen in less than 1% of users, include bleeding complications, although these are not conclusively linked to Ginkgo biloba. Potential drug interactions exist with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs due to mild platelet inhibition. It is contraindicated in patients with bleeding disorders or those on blood thinners. Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-studied, and caution is advised. Elderly populations are the primary users.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Ginkgo biloba is typically 120 mg/day of a standardized extract (EGb 761) for cognitive benefits. Optimal dosage ranges are between 120–240 mg/day, divided into two doses. The maximum safe dose is generally considered to be up to 240 mg/day in clinical trials. It is usually taken twice daily with meals. Standardized extracts (e.g., EGb 761) are preferred for consistent efficacy. Food may improve tolerability, and no major cofactors are required. Caution should be exercised not to exceed the recommended dosage.
FAQs
Is Ginkgo biloba safe for long-term use?
Yes, studies up to 9 months show good safety profiles with no significant bleeding risk when using standardized extracts at recommended doses.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Cognitive improvements are typically observed after 3 months of consistent use, particularly with standardized extracts like EGb 761.
Does it interact with blood thinners?
Potentially yes; caution is advised, and medical consultation is recommended if you are taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications.
Is it effective alone or only combined with drugs like donepezil?
Benefits are seen both alone and in combination, but some meta-analyses show enhanced effects when combined with donepezil in dementia patients.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21923430/ – This study evaluated hemostasis parameters in users of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract and found no significant increased bleeding risk. The findings support the safety of Ginkgo biloba in clinical use, particularly concerning bleeding complications.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1124710/full – This meta-analysis included 6 RCTs with 509 participants and compared Ginkgo biloba + donepezil vs. donepezil alone for cognitive function in dementia. The results showed a significant improvement in clinical effectiveness with the combination therapy, suggesting a synergistic effect.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15622975.2024.2446830?src=exp-la – This meta-analysis demonstrated that EGb 761 improves cognition, daily living activities, and global assessments in mild dementia patients. The study included multiple RCTs with adequate controls and confirmed the safety and efficacy of EGb 761 with moderate to high-quality evidence.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1524505/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis analyzed 14 RCTs (n=1043) and showed that Ginkgo biloba extract improved pulmonary function, oxygenation, and reduced inflammation/fibrosis markers in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The findings support the potential adjunctive use of Ginkgo biloba in IPF, although further large-scale trials are needed.
- https://www.jneurology.com/articles/commentary-ginkgo-biloba-for-mild-cognitive-impairment-and-alzheimer-s-disease-a-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-randomized-.html – This article is a commentary on a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials regarding Ginkgo biloba for mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. It provides an overview of the evidence supporting the use of Ginkgo biloba in these conditions.
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