Ginkgo Biloba

herb Verified

Specifically for Peripheral Artery Disease

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Why it works for Peripheral Artery Disease:

Antiplatelet/hemorheologic effects. Ginkgo’s terpene lactones (especially ginkgolides A/B) antagonize the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor and can inhibit human platelet aggregation in vitro. That could, in theory, improve microcirculatory flow in PAD. ScienceDirect

Vasoactive/antioxidant actions. Standardized extracts (e.g., EGb 761, typically 24% flavone glycosides/6% terpene lactones) show antioxidant activity and may influence nitric-oxide–mediated vasodilation; these mechanisms are often cited to explain proposed walking-distance benefits. ScienceDirect

How to use for Peripheral Artery Disease:

There is no guideline-endorsed PAD dosing for ginkgo, because it’s not recommended. The regimens below reflect what trials used, not what’s proven to help.

Standardized extract: Most studies used EGb 761 (or equivalent) standardized to 24% flavone glycosides/6% terpene lactones. Typical supplement doses in research across indications are 120–240 mg/day, divided once or twice daily. ScienceDirect
PAD-specific RCT example: 300 mg/day (as five 60 mg tablets: 3 with breakfast, 2 with dinner) for 4 months; results were not significant. Stanford Medicine
Duration used in efficacy reviews: Many trials ran ≥24 weeks; even then, benefits were small/uncertain. Cochrane
Regulatory monographs (EMA/HMPC) describe standardized preparations and pharmacokinetics but do not endorse PAD treatment claims. European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Scientific Evidence for Peripheral Artery Disease:

Cochrane systematic review (updated searches through 2013; plain-language update page maintained by Cochrane): Across 14 trials (n≈739), ginkgo produced, at best, a small and clinically uncertain increase in walking distance; when translated to a flat treadmill, the mean gain was ~65 meters (95% CI −2 to 131 m), and publication bias likely inflated the effect. Conclusion: no convincing, clinically important benefit for intermittent claudication. Cochrane
Randomized trial (Stanford Prevention Research Center): 62 adults with PAD took EGb 761, 300 mg/day for 4 months vs placebo. Result: modest but non-significant increase in maximal treadmill time; negligible change in pain-free walking time. Authors concluded findings do not support ginkgo as effective therapy for PAD. (Full study and study page). Stanford Medicine
Earlier meta-analysis (1999, The American Journal of Medicine) reported a small benefit over placebo, but later and more comprehensive Cochrane analyses judged any effect small, uncertain, and not clinically meaningful. American Journal of Medicine
Current PAD guidelines (2024 ACC/AHA Multisociety): Define evidence-based care (risk-factor management, antiplatelet/statin therapy, supervised/structured exercise, revascularization when indicated). Herbal/complementary agents aren’t recommended as PAD treatment; ginkgo is not included among recommended therapies. www.heart.org

Summary: High-quality evidence does not show a meaningful improvement in walking performance or symptoms for PAD with ginkgo. If used, it should be viewed as adjunctive at best and not a substitute for guideline-directed care.

Specific Warnings for Peripheral Artery Disease:

Bleeding risk and interactions. Because of antiplatelet activity, ginkgo may increase bleeding, especially with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, DOACs, aspirin, clopidogrel) or peri-procedurally. A 2025 observational study found clinically relevant ginkgo–drug interactions associated with bleeding/coagulation abnormalities. Stop before surgery (EMA suggests 3–4 days). NCCIH
Seizure risk (ginkgotoxin). Raw or roasted ginkgo seeds can be neurotoxic; even leaf extracts contain traces—avoid in epilepsy or seizure disorders. NCCIH
Pregnancy/lactation & pediatrics. Insufficient safety data—generally avoid. NCCIH
Drug metabolism. Possible effects on CYP450 enzymes and interactions with various medications have been reported; review all meds with a clinician/pharmacist. WebMD
Common adverse effects. Headache, GI upset, dizziness, skin reactions; rare allergic/bleeding events have been reported. 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.

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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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