Ginkgo biloba

Table of Contents

Other names

Ginkgo Leaf Extract
Standardized Ginkgo (24% flavone glycosides, 6% terpene lactones)
Ginkgo Tincture

Synopsis

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species on Earth, often referred to as a "living fossil", with origins tracing back over 200 million years. Native to China, the fan-shaped leaves of the ginkgo tree are used medicinally and are rich in unique compounds such as ginkgolides, bilobalide, and flavonoids. These bioactives contribute to its primary therapeutic actions: enhancing circulation, supporting brain function, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting neural tissue.

Ginkgo biloba is best known for its effects on cognitive performance and memory, making it a popular supplement for age-related cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. It improves blood flow to the brain, supports mitochondrial function, and protects neurons against oxidative damage and excitotoxicity. Clinical studies have shown that ginkgo can help with concentration, mental fatigue, tinnitus, and peripheral vascular disorders, including intermittent claudication.

Additionally, ginkgo is valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful in supporting eye health (such as glaucoma or macular degeneration), mood regulation, and vascular resilience. Standardized extracts (typically EGb 761) are commonly used in capsules or liquid form, with dosages ranging from 120 to 240 mg per day.

Historical Use
Ginkgo biloba has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as “Bai Guo”. In classical usage, it was the seed, not the leaf, that was used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and cough, as well as urinary and reproductive complaints. The seeds were roasted or decocted, often included in formulas to address phlegm, wheezing, and vaginal discharge. However, the seeds contain trace levels of toxins and must be prepared carefully.

The medicinal use of ginkgo leaf is a more modern development, popularized in Europe during the 20th century after German researchers developed standardized extracts. It was during this period that the focus shifted from respiratory conditions to cerebrovascular and cognitive health, as scientific studies began confirming ginkgo’s effects on blood flow and neural protection.

Today, Ginkgo biloba is one of the most researched herbal medicines worldwide, bridging traditional use and modern pharmacology. Its unique evolutionary history and pharmacological profile make it a distinctive and highly valued botanical for brain function, circulation, and aging support.

Uses: Health Conditions

Alzheimer's Disease (Traditional)
Blood Clots (prevention of) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Down Syndrome (Traditional)
Electromagnetic Pollution (Traditional)
Frostbite (prevention) (Traditional)
Hearing Loss (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Ménière’s Disease (Traditional)
Parkinson's Disease (Traditional)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Traditional)
Raynaud's Disease (Traditional)
Schizophrenia (Traditional)
Senility (Traditional)

Body Systems

Arteries (Traditional)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Science)
Brain (Science)
Brain (Traditional)
Capillaries (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Science)
Dopamine (Traditional)
Ears (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Mitochondria (Science)
Nerves (Traditional)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Science)
Pituitary (Traditional)
Pituitary (anterior) (Traditional)
Senses (Traditional)