Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Leaf Extract) is known for its ability to enhance memory, concentration, and cognitive function. It works by increasing blood flow to the brain, which helps improve mental clarity and focus. Ginkgo is also a powerful antioxidant, protecting the brain from oxidative damage, making it a popular supplement for supporting brain health and preventing age-related cognitive decline.

Key highlights of Ginkgo Biloba

• Supports blood flow and circulation
• Aids energy production
• Improved cognitive function and memory
• Increases blood flow and circulation, aiding in reducing cold hands and feet.
• Relieves headaches and dizziness
• Can help reduce anxiety and depression

Biochemistry Timeline

Ginkgo Biloba supplementation may take up to six weeks to show benefits, including improved cognitive function, enhanced memory, and better circulation, requiring consistent use for noticeable effects.

What is Ginkgo Biloba?

This popular herbal medicine is derived from one of the oldest species of tree on earth, sometimes referred to as a ‘living fossil’. It is a renowned herbal supplement with a history of use spanning thousands of years in traditional medicine. Known for its unique fan-shaped leaves and resilience, Ginkgo Biloba has gained contemporary recognition for its diverse health benefits. Traditionally employed to enhance cognitive function and improve circulatory health, this potent herb is now being explored for its potential therapeutic effects on mental health. Recent studies suggest that Ginkgo Biloba may offer significant relief from mental and physical fatigue, anxiety, and other symptoms commonly experienced by individuals exposed to chronic stress and trauma, such as refugees and war survivors. The therapeutic effects of Ginkgo Biloba which have been observed for centuries include improving blood flow to the brain and increasing oxygen supply there. Reduced blood flow to the brain has been linked to anxiety, depression, headaches, dizziness and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Ginkgo Biloba is used widely as a memory booster and to help combat age-related memory loss. It has also been shown to be effective in people with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

Blood Flow

Ginkgo Biloba affects the constriction and dilation of blood vessels (vasomotor function) and may enhance the flow of blood through the muscle tissue, thereby improving aerobic endurance. In a study using physically active men, six weeks of supplementation resulted in improvements in endurance and blood antioxidant capacity.

Fatigue

In people with peripheral arterial disease (blocked arteries in the limbs), supplementation has resulted in exercise performance improvements.

In one study involving refugees and war survivors, the addition of Ginkgo Biloba as part of a therapeutic strategy resulted in a significant reduction in mental and physical fatigue and anxiety.

Cognitive Function

Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and stabilising mood in elderly subjects with impairments. Additionally, studies have shown that supplementation with this herb can significantly improve symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms

PMS encompasses a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that many women experience in the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. Studies suggest that Ginkgo Biloba may help reduce the severity of these symptoms, offering a natural and effective option for managing PMS. Its anti-inflammatory properties, ability to improve blood circulation, and positive effects on mood regulation are believed to contribute to the relief of common PMS symptoms such as mood swings, breast tenderness, and fatigue. Women supplemented with Ginkgo Biloba for five months reported a reduction in PMS symptoms. This herb's broad benefits make it a valuable addition to various health regimens.

Focus Benefits

Supplementation with Ginkgo Biloba in adults diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, or vascular dementia has been shown to improve cognitive functioning, neuropsychiatric symptoms (behavioural changes), and functional abilities. Research involving middle-aged healthy individuals demonstrated improvements in memory recall after supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba for six weeks.

Memory

In studies with young, healthy participants, Ginkgo Biloba initially improved performance in attention and memory tests. However, these effects were not sustained after six weeks, suggesting that tolerance may develop in younger individuals. This indicates that Ginkgo Biloba may be more effective for older adults or those with cognitive impairments, rather than for long-term use in healthy young people.

Summary

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Leaf Extract) enhances memory, concentration, and cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain. As a powerful antioxidant, it protects against oxidative damage and supports brain health. Key benefits include improved circulation, reduced anxiety, and relief from headaches. Supplementation may take up to six weeks for noticeable effects, particularly in cognitive improvement and mental clarity. Traditionally used for thousands of years, Ginkgo is now recognized for its potential to combat age-related cognitive decline and improve overall mental well-being. Recommended dosages range from 120 to 240 mg daily, with some minor side effects possible.

FAQs

What is the recommended dosage for ginkgo biloba? Common dosages range from 120 to 240 mg of standardized extract per day, divided into two or three doses. It's best to follow the product's instructions or consult a healthcare professional.

Are there any side effects associated with ginkgo biloba? Ginkgo biloba is generally safe for most people, but potential side effects can include gastrointestinal upset, headaches, dizziness, and allergic skin reactions. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Can ginkgo biloba interact with medications? Yes, ginkgo biloba can interact with blood thinners, antidepressants, and medications for seizures. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially if you're taking other medications.

Research:

1. Woelk, H., Arnoldt, K. H., Kieser, M., & Hoerr, R. (2007). Ginkgo biloba special extract EGb 761 in generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder with anxious mood: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of psychiatric research, 41(6), 472–480.
2. Sadowska-Krępa, E., Kłapcińska, B., Pokora, I., Domaszewski, P., Kempa, K., & Podgórski, T. (2017). Effects of Six-Week Ginkgo biloba Supplementation on Aerobic Performance, Blood Pro/Antioxidant Balance, and Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Physically Active Men. Nutrients, 9(8), 803.
3. Alsmadi, A, M., Tawalbeh, L., Gammoh, O, S., Shagwagfeh, M, Q., Zalloum, W., Ashour, A., & Attarian, H. (2018) The effect of Ginkgo biloba and psycho-education on stress, anxiety and fatigue among refugees. Proceedings of Singapore Healthcare, 27 (1), 26-32
4. Ozgoli, G., Selselei, E. A., Mojab, F., & Majd, H. A. (2009). A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba L. in treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 15(8), 845–851.
5. Ihl, R., Tribanek, M., Bachinskaya, N., & GOTADAY Study Group (2012). Efficacy and tolerability of a once daily formulation of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® in Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia: results from a randomised controlled trial. Pharmacopsychiatry, 45(2), 41–46.
6. Kaschel R. (2011). Specific memory effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in middle-aged healthy volunteers. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 18(14), 1202–1207.
7. Elsabagh, S., Hartley, D. E., Ali, O., Williamson, E. M., & File, S. E. (2005). Differential cognitive effects of Ginkgo biloba after acute and chronic treatment in healthy young volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 179(2), 437–446.
8. Zhang, S. J., & Xue, Z. Y. (2012). Effect of Western medicine therapy assisted by Ginkgo biloba tablet on vascular cognitive impairment of none dementia. Asian Pacific journal of tropical medicine, 5(8), 661–664.
9. Napryeyenko, O., Borzenko, I., & GINDEM-NP Study Group (2007). Ginkgo biloba special extract in dementia with neuropsychiatric features. A randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Arzneimittel-Forschung, 57(1), 4–11.
10. Kennedy, D. O., Haskell, C. F., Mauri, P. L., & Scholey, A. B. (2007). Acute cognitive effects of standardised Ginkgo biloba extract complexed with phosphatidylserine. Human psychopharmacology, 22(4), 199–210.