Ginkgo Biloba

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Specifically for Parkinson's

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Why it works for Parkinson's:

Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo flavonoids and terpene lactones scavenge free radicals and dampen neuroinflammation—mechanisms relevant to dopaminergic neuron stress in PD, but demonstrated largely in lab/animal models rather than people with PD. Frontiers

Possible MAO-B inhibition (weak) and mitochondrial support. Certain Ginkgo constituents (e.g., kaempferol) show monoamine oxidase inhibition and neuroprotective effects in preclinical systems; this is mechanistically interesting because MAO-B inhibitors are used in PD, but clinical translation for Ginkgo itself is unproven. OUP Academic

Cerebral microcirculation & anti-platelet-activating factor activity. Extracts can modestly affect blood flow and platelet-activating factor pathways; again, this is mechanistic/preclinical and not validated as a PD therapy. Brieflands

How to use for Parkinson's:

There’s no established, PD-specific dosing regimen. In other conditions (e.g., age-related cognitive symptoms), standardized EGb 761® is typically used at 120–240 mg/day, often split twice daily, but those data do not validate use for PD. If you’re considering a supervised n=1 trial, discuss with your neurologist and pharmacist, especially because of drug–supplement interactions (see warnings below). Frontiers

Scientific Evidence for Parkinson's:

Human PD trials: There are no high-quality randomized controlled trials demonstrating clinical benefit of Ginkgo in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. Major PD organizations note insufficient evidence to recommend supplements like Ginkgo for PD. Parkinson's Foundation

Registered/related trials: A small randomized, double-blind trial was registered for drug-induced parkinsonism (not idiopathic PD); this isn’t the same disease biology, and posted results aren’t available. irct.behdasht.gov.ir

Preclinical/animal studies: Multiple studies and reviews report neuroprotection in PD models (rotenone, etc.), but these are animal/cell data and do not prove clinical efficacy in people. SpringerLink

Adjacent cognition literature: EGb 761® has mixed evidence in dementia/MCI, with some trials showing modest cognitive effects and others negative; this does not establish efficacy for PD motor or non-motor symptoms. JAMA Network

Specific Warnings for Parkinson's:

Bleeding risk & surgery: Ginkgo can increase bleeding risk, especially with warfarin, antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel), some antidepressants, and other anticoagulants. Most sources advise stopping Ginkgo ~2 weeks before surgery. NCCIH

Seizure risk (ginkgotoxin) & seeds: Raw/roasted ginkgo seeds are toxic and can provoke seizures; even leaf extracts may contain trace ginkgotoxin—avoid if you have a seizure disorder. Mayo Clinic

Documented interaction signals: Observational and case reports link Ginkgo to hemorrhagic events, particularly when combined with warfarin or other anticoagulants/antiplatelets. PLOS

Other possible interactions: Reports include interactions with efavirenz (HIV med), certain antiseizure meds, PPIs (omeprazole/esomeprazole), nifedipine, some statins and benzodiazepines—discuss your full med list with a clinician/pharmacist. NCCIH

Pregnancy, lactation, bleeding disorders, diabetes: Caution or avoidance is typically advised; monitor blood sugar closely if you have diabetes. Mayo Clinic

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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...

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