Ginkgo Biloba

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Specifically for Vitiligo

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Why it works for Vitiligo:

Targets mechanisms implicated in vitiligo: Oxidative stress and immune dysregulation contribute to melanocyte loss in vitiligo. Standardized Ginkgo extracts have antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity, and also inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF)—mechanisms proposed to help stabilize disease and allow repigmentation. BioMed Central

Clinical signal in slowing spread / aiding repigmentation: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in limited, slowly spreading vitiligo, oral Ginkgo significantly halted progression and increased the odds of marked–complete repigmentation versus placebo. (Details and dosing below.) Dr. Breslavets | CMSD

How to use for Vitiligo:

Formulation: Use a standardized Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (often labeled EGb 761 or equivalent), typically standardized to ~24% ginkgo-flavone glycosides and ~6% terpene lactones, with <5 ppm ginkgolic acids. intpsychogeriatrics.org

Dose used in the RCT: 40 mg by mouth, three times daily (total 120 mg/day) for several months. This is exactly the regimen tested in the placebo-controlled study of limited, slowly spreading vitiligo. Dr. Breslavets | CMSD

Alternate trial dosing (pilot/open-label): 60 mg twice daily (120 mg/day) for 12 weeks showed feasibility and signals of benefit; intended to inform a larger RCT. BioMed Central

General supplement ranges (context): Outside vitiligo, standardized Ginkgo extracts are commonly used at 40–80 mg two–three times daily (120–240 mg/day). If used for vitiligo, most clinicians mirror the 120 mg/day used in trials. Drugs.com

Duration: Expect at least 8–12 weeks before judging effect; the RCT assessed outcomes over months. Continue only with dermatologist oversight. Dr. Breslavets | CMSD

With other therapies: Small studies also explore Ginkgo as an adjunct to standard care (e.g., topical steroids or NB-UVB), but high-quality evidence is limited. esiculture.com

Scientific Evidence for Vitiligo:

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (gold standard):

Parsad D, Pandhi R, Juneja A. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2003;28(3):285-287.
Dose: 40 mg TID of standardized extract.
Findings: Significant cessation of progression (P=0.006); marked–complete repigmentation in 10 patients on Ginkgo vs 2 on placebo; well-tolerated. (Study population: limited, slowly spreading vitiligo.) Dr. Breslavets | CMSD

Open-label feasibility pilot (non-controlled):

Talsania et al., BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011.
Dose: 60 mg BID for 12 weeks in adolescents/young adults; suggested feasibility and potential benefit; designed to power a future RCT. BioMed Central

Systematic review of natural health products in vitiligo:

Concluded that oral Ginkgo monotherapy shows promise but more rigorous trials are needed. BioMed Central

Adjunct studies (emerging/early):

Small recent studies explore Ginkgo extract alongside standard treatments (e.g., topical steroids), reporting improved oxidative-stress markers and clinical indices; evidence remains preliminary. esiculture.com

Specific Warnings for Vitiligo:

Ginkgo is not risk-free. Discuss with your dermatologist/GP before starting—especially if you take other medicines.

Bleeding risk / surgery: Ginkgo can impair platelet function and has clinically relevant bleeding risk, particularly when combined with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, DOACs, aspirin, clopidogrel). Stop at least 2 weeks before surgery per peri-operative recommendations. NCCIH
Drug interactions: Reported interactions include warfarin/antiplatelets, anti-seizure medicines, nifedipine, omeprazole/esomeprazole, alprazolam, and others—review your list with a clinician/pharmacist. GoodRx
Seizure risk from seeds / high doses: Raw or roasted Ginkgo seeds contain ginkgotoxin and can provoke seizures; use leaf extracts only; avoid in seizure disorders. Mayo Clinic
Pregnancy & lactation: Insufficient safety data—avoid unless specifically advised by a clinician. Drugs.com
Common side effects: GI upset, headache, dizziness, and allergic reactions are reported; discontinue and seek care for any unusual bruising/bleeding, neurologic symptoms, or rash. 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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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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