Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba
Snapshot
Ginkgo biloba extract is derived from the leaves of the maidenhair tree and is rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, supporting cognitive function, circulation, and antioxidant defense.
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species. Standardized leaf extracts (often 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpenoids) concentrate its bioactive compounds—primarily quercetin, kaempferol, and ginkgolide B—for therapeutic use.
Where It Comes From
Harvested from mature Ginkgo biloba trees, leaves are collected in autumn, dried, and processed via solvent extraction (ethanol or acetone). Standardized GMP procedures ensure consistent flavonoid and terpenoid content.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Ginkgo extract delivers flavonoid glycosides (quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin) and terpenoids (ginkgolides A, B, C, bilobalide), which work synergistically to enhance microcirculation, scavenge free radicals, and modulate neurotransmission.
Health Benefits
Ginkgo biloba supports cerebral blood flow, improving memory, focus, and mental clarity. Its vasodilatory effects aid peripheral circulation, reducing symptoms of intermittent claudication. Antioxidant properties protect neuronal cells and vascular endothelium from oxidative stress.
Recommended Dosage
Standardized extracts are typically dosed at 120–240 mg per day, split into two or three doses. For cognitive support, 120 mg twice daily is common.
How to Use It
Take ginkgo capsules or tablets with meals to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset. Consistency over several weeks is necessary to observe cognitive and circulatory benefits.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for older adults or anyone seeking to support memory, mental performance, and healthy blood flow. It may benefit individuals experiencing mild cognitive decline or circulatory insufficiency.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Ginkgo may interact with anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications, increasing bleeding risk. Mild headaches, dizziness, or gastrointestinal discomfort can occur. Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
Final Thoughts
Ginkgo biloba is a well‑researched botanical that promotes healthy cognition and circulation through its unique flavonoid and terpenoid profile. When used appropriately, it offers broad neurovascular support.
Scientific Studies
Weinmann, S., Roll, S., Schwarzbach, C., Vauth, C., & Willich, S. N. (2010). Effects of Ginkgo biloba in dementia: systematic review and meta‑analysis. BMC Geriatrics, 10, 14.
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2318-10-14
Diamond, B. J., Shiflett, S. C., Feiwel, N., et al. (2000). Ginkgo biloba extract: mechanisms and clinical indications. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 81(5), 668–678.
https://doi.org/10.1053/apmr.2000.9313
Ma, Z., et al. (2015). Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761 enhances cognitive function and modulates cholinergic system in aged mice. Phytomedicine, 22(9), 911–917.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2015.06.004