Ginkgo Biloba

Can it help someone who already has dementia?

An overview of 12 systematic reviews found potential improvements in thinking, daily activities and overall clinical assessments. The more favorable evidence involved more than 200 mg daily, usually 240 mg, for at least 22 weeks. Evidence quality was low to moderate, so the authors called for stronger trials. 1

EMA recognizes a specific dry extract for age-related cognitive impairment and quality of life in adults with mild dementia. NCCIH describes possible modest symptom benefits but inconsistent evidence. These positions concern a particular clinical use, not a promise that any ginkgo supplement will sharpen memory. 2 3

Does taking it early prevent dementia?

The GEM trial enrolled 3,069 adults aged 75 or older with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment. Participants received 120 mg extract twice daily or placebo for a median of 6.1 years. Ginkgo did not reduce dementia incidence, including Alzheimer’s disease. 4

What about focus at work or study?

NCCIH finds the evidence in healthy people uncertain and often low quality. Possible improvements in dementia symptoms therefore cannot be carried over to concentration, memory or mental energy in otherwise healthy adults. 3

Which other ideas remain worth studying?

Small studies suggest possible benefits for anxiety, premenstrual symptoms and vertigo, with inconclusive overall evidence. Stroke rehabilitation is another research question. In contrast, the research summarized by NCCIH does not support ginkgo for high blood pressure, heart-disease prevention or tinnitus. 3