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HCRC FAQ Sheet

Ginkgo
Biloba


By Ellen Coleman, RD, MA, MPH

Ginkgo is an extract from the leaves of the gingko biloba tree that is used to improve memory and concentration. Ginkgo appears to be effective in treating ailments associated with decreased cerebral blood flow, particularly in older individuals. Ginkgo enhances blood flow to the brain by promoting vasodilation and improving blood flow in both the arteries and capillaries.

For the elderly, Ginkgo may improve concentration and memory, absent-mindedness, headaches, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It may also aid leg circulation and improve pain-free walking distance in individuals who have peripheral vascular disease. The internal dose is 120 to 240 milligrams of native dry extract in two or three doses.

Large doses of ginkgo may cause mild stomach or intestinal upset. If these occur, usage should be reduced or discontinued. Ginkgo may be countraindicated when an individual is on anticoagulants (e.g. Coumadin, htmlirin, ibuprofen) or dietary supplements (vitamin E or fish oil) which increase the clotting time of the blood (2).

All the gingko studies were done on one brand of gingko from France, and there is question as to whether other brand would yield the same results.

Consumers should be aware that the herbal marketplace is entirely unregulated. Thanks to the 1994 Dietary Supplement and Health Education Act (DSHEA), herbal products don't have to be proven safe or effective to be sold. There is also no guarantee that the herbal product is what it says it is.

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