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Gingko Leaf Extract

Also known as: Ginkgo biloba, Maidenhair Tree, Ginkgo, Ginkgo Leaf Extract

Overview

Ginkgo biloba is a venerable tree species with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Extracts from its leaves are valued for their potential cognitive and cardiovascular benefits. The extract contains active compounds such as ginkgolides, bilobalide, and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood circulation-enhancing properties. Ginkgo biloba extract is often standardized to ensure consistent levels of these active ingredients, with EGb 761 being a well-known standardized extract containing 6% terpenoids. Research on Ginkgo biloba is extensive, including numerous studies and meta-analyses evaluating its efficacy and safety. It is primarily used to improve cognitive function, especially in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment, and to support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow. Ginkgo biloba is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts, and is derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree.

Benefits

Ginkgo biloba extract has shown potential benefits in several areas. A meta-analysis indicated that ginkgo biloba, when combined with donepezil, significantly improved cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients (RR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.13, 1.34). Additionally, it may reduce the risk of peripheral arterial and systemic cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, although it does not directly improve glycemic control or lipid profiles. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of clinical trials revealed that combining ginkgo leaf extract with dipyridamole significantly improved the overall response rate for ischemic stroke patients (OR = 4.14, 95% CI = 3.26-5.25). These benefits are particularly relevant for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, type 2 diabetes, and those recovering from ischemic stroke. The cognitive benefits in Alzheimer's disease were observed after 3 to 9 months of intervention.

How it works

Ginkgo biloba extract exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It acts as an antioxidant and free radical scavenger, reducing oxidative stress. It also inhibits beta-amyloid production, which is implicated in Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, it improves blood circulation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. The extract affects the central nervous system by protecting against beta-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity and improving cognitive function. In the cardiovascular system, it improves blood flow and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Molecularly, it reduces circulating free cholesterol levels, affecting amyloid precursor protein (APP) metabolism, and inhibits reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. The bioavailability of ginkgo biloba extract is influenced by the standardized content of its active ingredients, such as terpenoids and flavonoids.

Side effects

Ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe at recommended doses, but it can cause side effects and interact with medications. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and nausea. Less common side effects include allergic reactions, fullness in the head, and palpitations. Rare but serious side effects include hemorrhage and serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with antidepressants. Ginkgo biloba can interact with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, NSAIDs, and antidepressants, increasing the risk of bleeding and serotonin syndrome. It may also affect the metabolism of certain drugs due to its weak induction of CYP2C19 and inhibition of CYP3A4. It is contraindicated in patients with bleeding disorders, those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, patients with a history of seizures, and those taking MAOIs or other antidepressants due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Patients with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose levels closely due to its potential to elevate blood sugar levels.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for cognitive benefits is typically 120-240 mg per day of a standardized extract like EGb 761. For cognitive function and cardiovascular health, doses ranging from 120 mg to 240 mg per day are commonly used. The maximum safe dose is generally considered to be up to 240 mg per day of EGb 761. Higher doses may increase the risk of adverse effects and interactions. The timing of administration is not strictly defined, but it is typically taken orally once or twice a day. Standardized extracts like EGb 761 are recommended due to their consistent content of active ingredients. The bioavailability of ginkgo biloba extract can be influenced by the presence of other nutrients and the timing of meals. There are no specific cofactors required for the absorption or efficacy of ginkgo biloba extract.

FAQs

Is Ginkgo biloba safe?

Ginkgo biloba is generally safe but can interact with medications. Use cautiously, especially if you have bleeding disorders or are taking anticoagulants. Monitor blood glucose if you have diabetes.

When should I take Ginkgo biloba?

There is no specific timing recommended, but it is typically taken once or twice a day with food to enhance absorption. Consistency is key for optimal results.

How long before I see results?

Cognitive benefits may be observed after several months of consistent use. Cardiovascular benefits may require long-term use to become noticeable.

Can Ginkgo biloba cure Alzheimer's?

No, Ginkgo biloba is not a cure for Alzheimer's. It may offer symptomatic relief and preventive benefits, but it does not address the underlying cause of the disease.

What are the common side effects?

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and nausea. Rare but serious side effects include hemorrhage and serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with antidepressants.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1124710/full – This meta-analysis of six RCTs found that ginkgo biloba combined with donepezil hydrochloride significantly improved cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease compared to donepezil alone. The study highlights the potential of ginkgo biloba as an adjunctive therapy for cognitive enhancement in Alzheimer's patients, with a relative risk of clinical effectiveness of 1.23 (95% CI 1.13, 1.34, *P* < 0.00001).
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2023.1231053/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients indicated that ginkgo biloba may safely reduce the risk of peripheral arterial and systemic cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that ginkgo biloba could offer cardiovascular protective effects in T2DM patients, although it did not directly improve glycemic control or lipid profiles.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.01403/full – This meta-analysis of 35 clinical trials showed that the combination of ginkgo leaf extract and dipyridamole significantly improved the overall response rate (ORR) for ischemic stroke patients compared to conventional treatments alone. The findings suggest that ginkgo biloba, when combined with dipyridamole, can be a beneficial adjunctive treatment for improving outcomes in ischemic stroke patients (OR = 4.14, 95% CI = 3.26-5.25, *P* < 0.00001).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/ – This is a general overview of Ginkgo biloba, discussing its traditional uses, active constituents, and potential health benefits. It covers the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Ginkgo biloba, as well as its potential role in improving cognitive function and cardiovascular health.
https://apm.amegroups.org/article/view/102485/html – This article discusses the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba in improving cognitive function and daily living abilities in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. It highlights the importance of standardized extracts like EGb 761 for consistent results.