Evidence supporting the use of: Ginkgo Flavone Glycoside
For the body system: Senses
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Ginkgo flavone glycosides, the primary active constituents of Ginkgo biloba extract, are widely used to support the "Senses" body system, particularly in relation to cognitive function and sensory health such as vision and hearing. Scientific evidence suggests that Ginkgo biloba extract can have beneficial effects on cognitive performance, likely due to its neuroprotective, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties. Some clinical trials have shown that Ginkgo biloba can improve symptoms in patients with age-related cognitive decline or mild dementia, and a few studies have suggested potential benefit for tinnitus (ringing in the ears), a condition affecting the sense of hearing. Additionally, its antioxidant effects may theoretically help protect retinal health, though robust evidence for direct vision improvement is limited.
However, the overall quality of evidence is moderate. While some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) report positive effects, systematic reviews and meta-analyses often conclude that benefits are modest, inconsistent, or not significantly greater than placebo, especially for sensory disorders like tinnitus or glaucoma. The evidence is strongest for cognitive support in older adults, and weaker for direct support of senses such as vision or hearing. Ginkgo is also traditionally used in Chinese medicine for circulatory and sensory disorders, but here the focus is on scientific evidence. Safety is generally good, although interactions and rare bleeding events have been reported.
In summary, there is scientific evidence supporting the use of Ginkgo flavone glycosides for cognitive and, to a lesser extent, sensory health, but the strength of evidence for direct support of the senses is moderate rather than strong.
Other body systems supported by Ginkgo Flavone Glycoside
ArteriesBlood
Brain
Capillaries
Circulatory System
Eyes
Nerves
Senses