Ginkgo Biloba

herb Verified

Specifically for Atherosclerosis

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Why it works for Atherosclerosis:

Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory actions: Standardized leaf extracts (e.g., EGb 761®) contain flavone glycosides and terpene lactones that can scavenge reactive oxygen species and modulate pathways tied to vascular inflammation—mechanisms relevant to atherogenesis (most evidence is preclinical or from general vascular biology). Office of Dietary Supplements

Endothelial function & nitric oxide signaling (preclinical/physiology): Components such as ginkgolide B have been reported to influence endothelial pathways (e.g., Akt/eNOS), which are involved in vascular tone and early atherosclerotic change (again, largely experimental). SpringerLink

Antiplatelet effects (double-edged): Ginkgo can inhibit platelet-activating factor; this is often cited as a theoretical anti-atherothrombotic mechanism but is also why bleeding risk increases (see warnings below). PLOS

How to use for Atherosclerosis:

Form: Use standardized leaf extract, typically 24% flavone glycosides / 6% terpene lactones (e.g., EGb 761)—not crude powder, tea, or seeds. This standardization is the basis for most clinical research and EU monographs. European Medicines Agency (EMA)
Typical study doses for vascular/cognitive indications (not atherosclerosis-specific): 120–240 mg/day, often split 60–120 mg twice daily. Trials like the GEMS program used 120 mg twice daily of EGb 761. EMA/HMPC monographs and large RCTs reflect these ranges. European Medicines Agency (EMA)
Duration before judging effect: Many studies evaluated outcomes after at least 6–12 weeks; vascular structure changes (e.g., plaque/IMT) would require months if they change at all. (This is an inference from trial durations and vascular biology; there’s no atherosclerosis-specific “response time”.) Europe PMC
Quality matters: Choose products meeting pharmacopeial standards (e.g., EMA-recognized acetone dry extract specs, low ginkgolic acid). European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Scientific Evidence for Atherosclerosis:

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) / intermittent claudication (a manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis):

A Cochrane systematic review of 14 trials (n=739) found no clinically meaningful improvement in walking distance; any observed difference (≈+65 m) was not significant and likely biased. Conclusion: no clinically significant benefit for PAD. Cochrane

Prevention of cardiovascular events (macro outcomes):

In the 3,069-participant Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) RCT (EGb 761, 120 mg BID, median 6.1 y), ginkgo did not reduce cardiovascular disease events or mortality versus placebo. Authors concluded ginkgo cannot be recommended for preventing CVD. Europe PMC

Atherosclerosis per se (plaque/IMT):

Human evidence directly showing regression or slowed progression of atherosclerotic plaque with ginkgo is limited and low-quality. Some small or regional studies (often adjunct to standard therapy) suggest changes in carotid ultrasound parameters, but these are not robust enough to support clinical use. SpringerLink
Ongoing/exploratory trials are looking at arteriosclerosis-relevant biomarkers over 6 months of EGb 761, but clinical outcome data are not established. ISRCTN Registry
Preclinical work (in vitro/animal) reports anti-atherosclerotic effects, but these do not establish human efficacy. PLOS

Specific Warnings for Atherosclerosis:

Bleeding risk & drug interactions: Ginkgo’s antiplatelet properties can increase bleeding, especially with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) or antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel). Observational and clinical literature plus safety authorities highlight this risk; monitor closely or avoid the combination. NCCIH

Surgery / procedures: Most perioperative guidance recommends stopping ginkgo at least 1–2 weeks before surgery to reduce bleeding risk. Stanford Medicine

Pregnancy & lactation: Avoid—may increase bleeding and there’s insufficient safety data. NCCIH

Seeds are toxic: Raw or roasted ginkgo seeds can cause seizures (ginkgotoxin). Do not ingest seeds. Use standardized leaf extract only. NCCIH

Common side effects: Headache, GI upset, dizziness; rare reports of hemorrhagic events. NCCIH

Quality/standardization: Use products that meet recognized standards (e.g., EMA/HMPC monograph specifications) and avoid non-standardized preparations. European Medicines Agency (EMA)

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General Information (All Ailments)

Note: You are viewing ailment-specific information above. This section shows the general remedy information for all conditions.

What It Is

Ginkgo biloba is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree, one of the oldest living tree species in the world. Native to China, it has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Today, it is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, extracts, and teas. The active components of ginkgo include flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

How It Works

Ginkgo biloba is believed to work primarily through three mechanisms:

Improved Blood Flow: Ginkgo enhances circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood viscosity, which can increase oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues—especially in the brain, eyes, and extremities.
Antioxidant Action: The flavonoids in ginkgo combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which may help protect cells and slow age-related decline.
Neuroprotective Effects: It may improve neuronal function and communication by influencing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Some studies suggest it can support cognitive function and memory, particularly in older adults or those with mild cognitive impairment.

Why It’s Important

Ginkgo biloba is valued for its potential benefits in several health areas:

Cognitive Health: It is widely studied for supporting memory, focus, and mental clarity, with potential benefits for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or dementia.
Circulatory Support: By improving blood flow, it may aid in conditions like peripheral artery disease or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) that are related to poor circulation.
Antioxidant Protection: Its antioxidant capacity can help combat cellular damage associated with aging and environmental stressors.
Mood and Anxiety Relief: Some evidence indicates that ginkgo may have mild anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects by modulating stress-related hormones and neurotransmitters.

Considerations

While ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, there are important precautions:

Interactions: Ginkgo may interact with blood thinners (like warfarin or aspirin), increasing the risk of bleeding. It can also interact with antidepressants and certain diabetes medications.
Side Effects: Possible side effects include headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, or allergic reactions. Rarely, it may cause heart palpitations or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Dosage and Quality: Standardized extracts (often 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones) are typically recommended for consistency and safety. The quality of supplements can vary widely, so reputable brands should be chosen.
Special Populations: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with seizure disorders or bleeding conditions, should avoid ginkgo unless directed by a healthcare professional.

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Ginkgo Biloba is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.

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Ginkgo’s plausibility for PTSD comes from several biological actions that map onto processes believed to underlie PTSD (neuroinflammation, oxidative s...

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