Ginkgo Biloba

herb Verified

Specifically for Glaucoma

0% effective

0 votes
0 up • 0 down

Why it works for Glaucoma:

Neuroprotection & mitochondrial support. Standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (often EGb 761) contains flavonoids/terpenoids that scavenge free radicals, modulate platelet-activating factor, and may stabilize mitochondrial membranes—mechanisms proposed to protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Recent review work also discusses restoration of respiratory chain function and ATP production in neural tissue. Modern Optometry

Vascular/ocular blood-flow effects. Ginkgo can improve microcirculation and vasoregulation; in glaucoma this could enhance perfusion of the optic nerve head (a leading theory in NTG). Clinical and mechanistic reviews in ophthalmology summarize these effects. Modern Optometry

How to use for Glaucoma:

There’s no official glaucoma dosing guideline. Trials have typically used standardized extracts (24% flavone glycosides / 6% terpene lactones; EGb 761 or equivalent) with divided daily dosing:

40 mg three times daily (120 mg/day) for 4 weeks in a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in NTG. IOVS
80 mg twice daily (160 mg/day) in longer-term NTG studies evaluating visual-field progression. aoa.org

If you and your ophthalmologist decide to try it as an adjunct:

Choose a standardized extract (e.g., EGb 761). Take with food to reduce GI upset; start at 120–160 mg/day in divided doses (mirrors trial regimens). Reassess after 4–8 weeks for tolerability and any subjective/functional changes; formal visual field testing requires your clinician. new-glaucoma-treatments.com
Do not stop prescribed glaucoma therapy. Ginkgo is, at best, an add-on. aao.org
Quality matters: supplements aren’t FDA-approved like drugs; pick products with third-party testing. (General safety/regulatory background.) NCCIH

Scientific Evidence for Glaucoma:

Quaranta et al., Ophthalmology (2003) – 27 NTG patients; randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled crossover; 40 mg TID (120 mg/day) for 4 weeks improved some visual-field indices vs placebo, without IOP changes. Short duration; small sample. ScienceDirect

Guo et al., IOVS (2014) – NTG; randomized, placebo-controlled crossover; 40 mg TID for 4 weeks; reported improvements in contrast sensitivity/visual field measures; again, no IOP reduction. IOVS

Longer-term progression data (Journal of Glaucoma) – Observational/prospective NTG cohorts using 80 mg BID (160 mg/day) reported slower visual-field deterioration; useful but not definitive (non-randomized or small). aoa.org

Systematic review (PLOS ONE, 2025) – Pooled clinical data on ginkgo in glaucoma found signals of benefit on visual-field parameters but emphasized limited study quality, short follow-up, and heterogeneity; called for larger, longer RCTs. PLOS

Specific Warnings for Glaucoma:

Bleeding risk. Ginkgo can increase bleeding—especially with warfarin, DOACs, aspirin, clopidogrel, or upcoming surgery/dental procedures. Many clinicians advise stopping at least 1–2 weeks pre-op. Consult your doctor if you’re on any blood thinners. NCCIH

Seizure risk / seeds are toxic. Raw or roasted ginkgo seeds contain ginkgotoxin and have caused seizures; avoid. Leaf extract may still lower seizure threshold in susceptible people. NCCIH

Pregnancy & breastfeeding. Avoid—possible bleeding risk and insufficient safety data. NCCIH

Drug interactions beyond anticoagulants. Possible interactions via CYP450 enzymes (e.g., CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP3A4 substrates), antiseizure meds, some PPIs, and nifedipine have been reported—review all meds with your clinician/pharmacist. WebMD

Common side effects. Headache, GI upset, dizziness, allergic skin reactions; stop and seek care for unusual bruising, bleeding, or neurologic symptoms. NCCIH

Back to Glaucoma

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.

Helps with these conditions

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

PTSD 0% effective

Fibromyalgia 0% effective

Erectile Dysfunction 0% effective

Alzheimer's 0% effective

Parkinson's 0% effective

Macular Degeneration 0% effective

Conditions

Total Votes

Studies

Avg. Effectiveness

Detailed Information by Condition

PTSD

0% effective

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

0 votes Updated 2 months ago 6 studies cited

Browse by Category

Navigation

Account

Listening...