Ginkgo Biloba Dosage

Because ginkgo biloba is not closely regulated, the best dose has not been established. Clinical studies have used dosages of 120 mg to 480 mg per day, typically split up into two or three smaller doses. It is a good idea to start with a low dosage and to not exceed the recommended amount on the label of your particular product.

An Introduction to Dosing With Ginkgo Biloba

It is important to note that unlike medications (for which the standard doses have been well established), there is less information available for determining the best dosage for supplements, including ginkgo biloba (ginkgo).
 

Reasonable Ginkgo Biloba Dosage

Clinical studies have often used dosages of 120 mg to 480 mg of ginkgo biloba per day, usually taken in two or three smaller doses. It is a good idea to start with a low dose (120 mg per day or less), to avoid stomach upset. In all cases, be sure not to exceed the recommended dose on the label of your particular product.
 
If you develop bothersome or serious ginkgo biloba side effects, check with your healthcare provider right away. These side effects may be a sign that your ginkgo biloba dosage is too high. Taking too much ginkgo biloba can cause serious problems, including dangerous (even fatal) internal bleeding.
 
Ginkgo biloba contains a toxin known as ginkgolic acid. This toxin can cause severe allergic reactions and may be carcinogenic (may increase the risk of cancer). Make sure your ginkgo biloba supplement contains less than 5 ppm (parts per million) of ginkgolic acid.
 

General Information on Taking Ginkgo Biloba

Some considerations for people taking ginkgo biloba include the following:
 
 
  • Because the manufacturing of supplements (such as ginkgo biloba) is not closely regulated, it is important to choose a reputable manufacturer for ginkgo biloba supplements. It is a good idea to look for the "USP" symbol, as this means that the supplement has been tested and contains the right ingredients in the right amounts. Reputable manufacturers are more likely to check the toxin levels of their products.
     
  • If you have any chronic health problems or take any prescription medications, it is probably a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking ginkgo biloba.
     
  • If you are unsure about anything related to your dosage or ginkgo biloba dosing in general, please talk with your healthcare provider.
     
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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