Ginkgo Biloba
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo biloba, an indigenous tree species of East Asia, holds the distinction of being among the planet's most ancient tree species with a history spanning over 200 million years (1) (3) (4). The tree's leaves are processed to obtain the Ginkgo biloba extract, a prevalent ingredient in supplements (3) (5).
Uses and Benefits
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Cognitive function: A frequent oral supplement, Ginkgo biloba is believed to address memory and cognitive challenges, anxiety, visual impairments, and a myriad of other conditions (3). It purportedly enhances blood circulation, offers antioxidant properties that retard brain changes, and modulates neurotransmitters (3) (5). However, these claims are not backed by robust scientific evidence (3).
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Dementia and Alzheimer's disease: Preliminary evidence suggests that Ginkgo might benefit dementia patients, though comprehensive studies are awaited for confirmation (6). Reported advantages encompass improved cognition, enhanced social demeanor, and a heightened ability to manage daily chores (6).
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Anxiety: Symptoms of anxiety may be mitigated by Ginkgo (6).
Dosage
A standardized dosage for Ginkgo biloba is yet to be defined. Nevertheless, research trials have employed doses ranging from 120-240 mg daily (3). It's prudent to adhere to the label recommendations of the supplement or seek guidance from a medical professional.
Side Effects
Typically, Ginkgo biloba is well-tolerated when consumed as a dietary supplement (3). A subset of users might encounter minor adverse reactions like dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, and oral ulcers (3). A notable caution is its potential to induce bleeding, particularly if combined with anticoagulant medications (2) (3).
Interactions
Ginkgo biloba might adversely interact with anticoagulants, exemplified by warfarin, heparin, aspirin, and clopidogrel, amplifying the bleeding risk (2) (3). Combining Ginkgo with these medications is best avoided.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
No specific time of day is earmarked for Ginkgo biloba intake (3). It can be ingested irrespective of meals (2) (3).
Human Studies
While Ginkgo biloba finds common use for memory enhancement, cognitive challenges, anxiety, and other issues, substantial scientific validation for these uses is lacking (3). Initial studies hint at Ginkgo's potential benefit for dementia patients, but exhaustive research is needed for affirmation (6).
In summary, Ginkgo biloba, native to East Asia, is a popular oral supplement believed to tackle a range of health challenges. However, scientific evidence substantiating most of these claims remains scarce. Typically considered safe as a dietary supplement, Ginkgo's combination with anticoagulants can lead to bleeding. No specific timing for Ginkgo consumption is suggested, and it can be consumed with or without meals. Future research will be pivotal in ascertaining Ginkgo biloba's efficacy and safety in diverse health contexts.
Citations:
(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginkgo_biloba
(2) https://www.poison.org/articles/ginkgo-biloba-risks-benefits-181
(3) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-333/ginkgo
(4) https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/ginkgo-biloba
(5) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-ginkgo/art-20362032
(6) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263105