Herbal Action: Nootropic (cognitive enhancer), general tonic (energy booster), neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant

Common Name: Maidenhair tree, Ginkgo
Scientific Name: Ginkgo biloba
Family: Ginkgoaceae
Parts Used: Leaves

Phytonutrients in Ginkgo Biloba

• Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Phenolic acids: Provide significant antioxidant benefits.
• Terpenoids (ginkgolides, bilobalides): Enhance brain function and protect neural cells.
• Proanthocyanidins: Polyphenols that help control cholesterol, support blood vessel health, reduce diabetes risk, and combat certain cancers.

Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits

Ginkgo biloba is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It improves glucose and oxygen uptake in the brain while strengthening blood vessels, which enhances memory, focus, attention, and overall cognitive function. Its benefits are particularly noticeable in individuals with cognitive decline, such as those with Alzheimer’s or age-related dementia, though healthy individuals may also notice improved mental clarity and quality of life.

Additional Benefits:

• Reduces Depression and Anxiety: EGb761, a standardized ginkgo extract, shows antidepressant effects and may alleviate anxiety with minimal side effects.
• Decreases Fatigue: Acts as a general tonic to combat fatigue, even in conditions like multiple sclerosis or chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Eases PMS: Daily intake (40 mg thrice per day) from the 16th day of the menstrual cycle to the 5th day of the next can reduce PMS severity by nearly 24%.
• Supports Tinnitus Relief: May help reduce ringing in the ears, especially in patients with cognitive issues.
• Reduces Inflammatory Pain: Anti-inflammatory compounds like bilobalide alleviate pain and hypersensitivity caused by local inflammation.
• Antibacterial Effects: Bilobalide can eliminate dangerous bacteria, such as Pneumocystis carinii, without toxicity.
• Psychiatric Support: May reduce “positive” symptoms in conditions like schizophrenia, including hallucinations, delusions, and agitation.
• Protects Blood Vessels & Improves Circulation: Vasoprotective effects enhance blood flow, potentially reducing stroke risk.
• Enhances Female Sexual Health: Can complement sex therapy by improving libido and sexual satisfaction.
• Slows Age-Related Vision Decline: Antioxidant activity and improved circulation help maintain eye health.

How to Use Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo can be taken as a standardized extract or brewed as tea. Extracts allow precise dosing, making them suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. For tea, steep 1 teaspoon of fresh leaves in hot water for 5–7 minutes; add lemon or honey if desired.

• Recommended Dosage: 100–250 mg daily, divided into 2–3 doses.
• Tea Equivalent: 40 mg of extract ≈ 1.4–2.7 g of leaves.
• Duration: For optimal benefits, use continuously for 3–6 months.

Contraindications and Safety

• Avoid concurrent use with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (e.g., warfarin, heparin, aspirin) due to increased bleeding risk.
• Pregnant women should avoid ginkgo because it may prolong bleeding during labor.
• Those allergic to poison ivy, mango, cashews, or pistachios may be sensitive to ginkgo.
• Limited evidence is available on ginkgo’s safety in children and during lactation.

Side Effects: Rare and usually minor, such as mild abdominal discomfort. Tea may be slightly less predictable in effects due to varying concentrations of active compounds.