Virtiva
Also known as: Ginkgo biloba, Maidenhair Tree, Virtiva® Plus, Ginkgo biloba extract
Overview
Ginkgo biloba is an ancient plant species known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, with its leaves commonly used to produce dietary supplements. Virtiva® Plus is a proprietary formulation of Ginkgo biloba extract, designed to support cognitive function, improve memory, and reduce stress. It is rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, and bilobalide, which contribute to its biological effects. Ginkgo biloba has a moderate to high research maturity level, backed by numerous studies and meta-analyses, although some variability exists in study quality and outcomes. Its extracts are available in various forms, with standardized extracts being the most common.
Benefits
Research indicates that Ginkgo biloba significantly enhances cognitive performance, particularly in patients with depression, with a relative risk of 1.22 for clinical efficacy. Additionally, studies suggest it may reduce stress, supported by ongoing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Virtiva® Plus. Other benefits include improved blood metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), where it showed significant improvements in hemorheology and lipid profiles with a standardized mean difference of -0.91 in plasma viscosity. The evidence is strongest for cognitive enhancement in elderly and depressed populations.
How it works
Ginkgo biloba extract is believed to exert its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, while its ability to improve blood flow supports cognitive functions by enhancing vascular health. The extract influences neurotransmitter systems, notably those involving serotonin and dopamine, thus promoting better mood and cognitive performance. The presence of flavonoids and terpenoids may also modulate inflammatory processes, supporting overall brain health.
Side effects
Ginkgo biloba is generally regarded as safe, but it may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances, occurring in over 5% of users. Less common effects include allergic reactions and bleeding disorders due to its antiplatelet activity, affecting about 1-5% of users. Rare but severe adverse reactions have been reported, especially among patients using anticoagulants, resulting in contraindications for those with bleeding disorders or those on specific medications. Caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and elderly individuals should be monitored closely due to potential heightened risks.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract typically ranges from 120 to 240 mg per day. Higher doses of 240 to 480 mg per day, often divided into two servings, have been utilized in studies. While up to 480 mg daily is generally considered safe, higher doses may lead to increased side effects. For optimal absorption, Ginkgo extract should be taken with meals, enhancing bioavailability. Specific formulations should contain 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones.
FAQs
Is Ginkgo biloba safe to use?
Generally safe, but caution is needed with certain medications and populations due to possible interactions and side effects.
How should I take Ginkgo biloba?
It is best taken with meals, divided into two servings to improve absorption.
When can I expect results from Ginkgo biloba?
Improvements in cognitive function and stress reduction may typically be observed within a few weeks of use.
Can Ginkgo biloba cure my condition?
It is not a cure but can serve as an adjunctive treatment to support cognitive health.
Research Sources
- https://ctv.veeva.com/study/effects-of-indenas-virtiva-r-plus-ginkgo-biloba-extract-on-stress-and-cognitive-performance – This ongoing randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the dose-dependent effects of Virtiva® Plus on stress and cognitive performance, involving 29 participants. Although detailed results remain pending, the study follows robust RCT methodologies.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1364030/full – This systematic review assesses the effects of Ginkgo biloba on patients with depression, highlighting significant improvements in clinical efficacy compared to control groups, with an overall meta-analysis encompassing 2074 patients across 21 studies.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2023.1231053/full – A systematic review focusing on Ginkgo biloba in patients with type 2 diabetes demonstrated improvements in hemorheology and lipid profiles, emphasizing its potential benefits for metabolic health based on data from 1573 participants across 13 studies.
