An Overview of a Ginkgo Biloba Overdose
Ginkgo biloba (
ginkgo) is a popular herbal supplement. It is typically used to enhance memory or to improve general mental functioning. The effects of a ginkgo biloba overdose will vary, depending on the
ginkgo biloba dosage and other factors.
If you happen to overdose on ginkgo biloba, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of a Ginkgo Biloba Overdose
Even though ginkgo biloba is a natural substance, it may be possible to take too much of it. Taking too much ginkgo biloba may result in overdose symptoms such as:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of muscle tone
- Seizures
- Signs of bleeding, such as:
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Nosebleeds
- Black, tarry stools, bright-red blood in the stool, or vomiting of blood (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding)
- Vision or speech changes, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, or a severe headache (signs of bleeding in the brain).
Treatment for a Ginkgo Biloba Overdose
It is not known how best to treat a ginkgo biloba overdose. If the overdose was recent, your healthcare provider may administer certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Treatment (if necessary) will also involve supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For instance, if a ginkgo overdose causes seizures, anticonvulsant medications may be given to stop the seizures.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on ginkgo biloba.