Cognition/Heart/Mood

Ginkgo biloba

Herbal extract studied for dementia symptoms and peripheral circulation in older adults, with mixed clinical results.

Ginkgo biloba

Herbal extract studied for dementia symptoms and peripheral circulation in older adults, with mixed clinical results.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Proven Benefits

01Improves cognition in dementia

02Improves walking distance in PAD

03May reduce anxiety symptoms

04May reduce Raynaud's episodes

05May ease PMS symptoms

Chemical Forms

Recommended

Standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761)
Standardized leaf extract 24% flavone glycosides / 6% terpene lactones

Avoid

Raw ginkgo leaf powder
Ginkgo seeds (contain ginkgotoxin)

Expert Note

EGb 761 is the extract used in most positive clinical trials and is standardized to 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones. Raw leaf powders lack consistent active content, while seeds contain ginkgotoxin, which can cause seizures.

Protocol

Amount

120-240 mg

Frequency

Twice daily

When

With food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Condition-Based Dosing

Mild cognitive impairment or dementia

240 mg daily of EGb 761, divided into two doses— Used in most positive dementia trials; benefits are modest and not all studies agree.

Peripheral artery disease (intermittent claudication)

240 mg daily divided into two doses— May increase pain-free walking distance after 8-12 weeks.

Generalized anxiety

120-240 mg daily— Lower end of the range may be sufficient; reassess after 6 weeks.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit

No official UL; 240 mg/day of standardized extract is the usual dose, with studies using up to 480 mg/day short-term

Cycling

Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulants/antiplatelets — increases bleeding risk

Bleeding disorders — theoretical increased bleeding risk

Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient safety data, avoid use

Upcoming surgery — discontinue at least 1-2 weeks prior due to bleeding risk

Seizure disorders — use caution due to ginkgotoxin concerns in non-standardized products

Avoid Combining With

✕Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs (increases bleeding risk — consult clinician before use)
✕NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin (additive bleeding risk — avoid stacking)
✕Heavy alcohol use (may compound bleeding risk)

Updated Invalid Date