Ginkgo Biloba

herb Verified

Specifically for Meniere’s Disease

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Why it works for Meniere’s Disease:

Proposed mechanisms: standardized Ginkgo extracts (e.g., EGb 761) have antioxidant, microcirculatory and anti-platelet-activating-factor effects that have been studied in vertigo of mixed causes (e.g., age-related or central/ischemic), not specifically MD. Europe PMC

How to use for Meniere’s Disease:

There is no MD-specific, evidence-based dosing protocol for ginkgo. If a patient and their clinician elect an off-label trial, studies in mixed-etiology vertigo typically used EGb 761, 240 mg/day (120 mg twice daily) for 12 weeks, sometimes longer. Look for a standardized extract (≈24% flavone glycosides, 6% terpene lactones) and avoid products lacking standardization or quality controls. Always coordinate with your ENT/GP due to interactions (see warnings). Europe PMC

Scientific Evidence for Meniere’s Disease:

Not specific to Ménière’s disease:

Randomized, double-blind non-inferiority RCT (n=160) comparing EGb 761 (240 mg/day) vs betahistine (32 mg/day) for mixed-etiology vertigo over 12 weeks: similar improvement on vertigo scales; study was not designed for MD specifically. Europe PMC
Central/ischemic vertigo RCTs and programs combining vestibular rehab with EGb 761 show benefit in those populations (again, not MD). SCIRP
Meta-analysis (2023) of RCTs in vertigo (n=25 studies): benefit in several subgroups, no benefit in Ménière’s disease subgroup. X-MOL

Tinnitus (a major MD symptom):

Cochrane reviews (including updated analyses) find no convincing benefit of ginkgo over placebo for tinnitus. Cochrane

Specific Warnings for Meniere’s Disease:

Bleeding risk / drug interactions: Ginkgo can inhibit platelet aggregation and increase bleeding risk, especially with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, clopidogrel), and even with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen). Stop before surgery (often 1–2 weeks) unless your surgeon advises otherwise. NCCIH

Seizure risk from seeds (ginkgotoxin): Do not ingest ginkgo seeds (raw or roasted); they contain ginkgotoxin which can provoke seizures and serious toxicity, particularly in children. Use only leaf extracts from reputable manufacturers. FEHD

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid; potential for excess bleeding around delivery and inadequate safety data for lactation. NCCIH

Common side effects: GI upset, headaches, dizziness (ironically), and allergic reactions; quality varies widely among supplements. NCCIH

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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.

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

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PTSD

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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...

0 votes Updated 2 months ago 6 studies cited

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