Ginkgo Biloba
Standardized ginkgo leaf extract (EGb 761), a botanical nootropic supporting cerebral circulation and neuroprotection.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS GINKGO BILOBA?
Detailed overview
Ginkgo biloba is a standardized extract of the leaves of the maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba); its best-studied form, EGb 761, is typically standardized to about 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene trilactones (ginkgolides and bilobalide). The flavonoids act as antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, while the terpene trilactones antagonize platelet-activating factor (PAF), producing antithrombotic and neuroprotective effects that are proposed to improve cerebral microcirculation. Human evidence is mixed: several randomized trials show modest improvement in mild-to-moderate dementia and symptomatic cognitive decline, whereas large controlled trials (such as the GEM study) found no meaningful benefit for enhancing memory in healthy adults or preventing dementia. It is a registered phytomedicine in several European countries (e.g. Germany) and a dietary supplement in the US.
Mechanism
PAF antagonism + antioxidant (EGb 761 extract)
Evidence
Moderate (mixed: modest in dementia, none in healthy)
Legal status
EU: phytomedicine; US/HU: dietary supplement
Receptor profile
- Platelet-activating factor (PAF)Strong
- Free radicals / lipid peroxidationModerate
- Cerebral glucose utilizationModerate
- MAO-A / MAO-BWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- Mild headache or dizziness, especially in the first days of use
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, bloating, diarrhea)
- Increased bleeding tendency due to the PAF-inhibiting, antiplatelet effect
- Rarely allergic skin reactions (in those sensitive to ginkgolic acids)
- Raw or unroasted ginkgo seeds are separately toxic (MPN content, seizure risk); the standardized leaf extract is not the same
Contraindications · 4
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel): increased bleeding risk
- Discontinue 1-2 weeks before planned surgery due to bleeding risk
- Epilepsy or lowered seizure threshold: theoretical seizure risk (especially at high doses or seed-containing products)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: not sufficiently studied, avoid
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial of an extract of Ginkgo biloba for dementia
Le Bars PL, Katz MM, Berman N, Itil TM, Freedman AM, Schatzberg AF
Ginkgo for memory enhancement: a randomized controlled trial
Solomon PR, Adams F, Silver A, Zimmer J, DeVeaux R
Ginkgo biloba for prevention of dementia: a randomized controlled trial
DeKosky ST, Williamson JD, Fitzpatrick AL, Kronmal RA, Ives DG, Saxton JA, et al.
EGb761 Trials for Mild-to-Moderate Dementia-What Have We Learned in the Past 18 years?
Kandiah N, et al.
A randomised, placebo-controlled, triple-blind clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in cognitive impairment associated with post COVID-19 syndrome
et al.
FAQ
FAQ
Standardized ginkgo leaf extract (EGb 761), a botanical nootropic supporting cerebral circulation and neuroprotection.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.