Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) is a popular herbal supplement. These supplements are made from extracts of the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree, one of the longest living trees in the world. Ginkgo biloba is said to be useful for many different medicinal uses, although most people take it to improve memory or mental functioning.
(Click Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba for more information on what ginkgo biloba is used for, including additional ginkgo biloba uses.)
How Does Ginkgo Biloba Work?
It is not exactly clear how ginkgo biloba works. It seems that there is a wide variety of different active compounds in ginkgo biloba, and it is thought that it is probably a combination of several of these active compounds that is responsible for the actions of ginkgo biloba. Some of these compounds have "blood-thinning" properties, helping to keep blood platelets from sticking together. Other compounds work as antioxidants, protecting cells from free radical damage. Ginkgo biloba may also help to prevent cell damage caused by beta-amyloid proteins (which may contribute to
Alzheimer's disease). There are several other theoretical effects of ginkgo biloba (that have been demonstrated in laboratory studies, but not yet in humans) that may also contribute to the actions of ginkgo biloba.
Is Ginkgo Biloba Effective?
Ginkgo biloba may be effective for several uses (although larger studies are needed to confirm the early positive findings of some studies). However, some ginkgo biloba uses have no scientific basis whatsoever.
Ginkgo Biloba Dosing Information
Because
ginkgo biloba is a
dietary supplement (not a "drug"), the best doses for ginkgo biloba have not been thoroughly established. Make sure to follow the specific instructions on your particular ginkgo biloba product.
Side Effects of Ginkgo Biloba
Many people believe that natural products, such as ginkgo biloba, do not have side effects. However, many natural products cause side effects, some of which can be quite serious. Common
side effects of ginkgo biloba include, but are not limited to:
(Click Ginkgo Biloba Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Ginkgo Biloba
Some people are more likely than others to experience problems due to ginkgo biloba. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking ginkgo biloba if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Ginkgo Biloba Safety for more information, including any available ginkgo biloba warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take a Ginkgo Biloba Overdose?
People who take too much
ginkgo biloba may have overdose symptoms such as:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of muscle tone
- Seizures
- Bleeding (including dangerous internal bleeding).
If you think you may have taken too much ginkgo biloba, seek immediate medical attention.
Ginkgo Biloba: Storage Methods
Refer to the label of your individual ginkgo biloba product for information on how best to store this supplement. Keep ginkgo biloba and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
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