Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba Extract (EGb 761)
Ginkgo Biloba Extract (standardized to EGb 761, containing 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones) is a botanical nootropic derived from the oldest living tree species. It is primarily used to support cognitive function, memory, and cerebral circulation, with clinical evidence supporting its use in age-related cognitive decline and early-stage dementia.
Mechanism of Action
EGb 761 exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms: flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) act as potent antioxidants neutralizing reactive oxygen species, while terpene lactones (ginkgolides A, B, C and bilobalide) antagonize platelet-activating factor (PAF), reducing platelet aggregation and improving microcirculation. The extract also enhances cerebral blood flow via vasodilation, modulates neurotransmitter systems including acetylcholine and serotonin, and protects mitochondrial function in neurons, contributing to its neuroprotective and pro-cognitive effects.
Evidence by Health Goal(18 goals)
Dosing Protocols
With meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort
Use standardized EGb 761 extract (24% flavone glycosides, 6% terpene lactones). The 240mg/day dose (split as 120mg twice daily) is most supported by clinical trials for cognitive benefit. Full effects may take 4-12 weeks to become apparent. Avoid crude or non-standardized leaf preparations.
Safety & Side Effects
Ginkgo Biloba is generally well-tolerated in healthy adults at standardized doses up to 240mg/day, with a favorable long-term safety record in multiple large trials; however, its antiplatelet activity poses a meaningful bleeding risk, particularly when combined with anticoagulants or prior to surgery. Raw ginkgo seeds and non-standardized preparations can be toxic and should be avoided entirely.
Possible Side Effects
- !Headache, particularly during initial weeks of use
- !Gastrointestinal discomfort including nausea and mild diarrhea
- !Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially at higher doses
- !Skin hypersensitivity reactions in individuals allergic to Anacardiaceae family plants
- !Increased bleeding risk and prolonged bleeding time
- !Insomnia or sleep disturbances if taken late in the day
- !Palpitations reported rarely at higher doses
Interactions
- -Significantly enhances anticoagulant and antiplatelet effects of warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, and NSAIDs - may increase bleeding risk
- -May reduce efficacy of anticonvulsant medications (phenytoin, valproate) by lowering seizure threshold at high doses
- -Additive blood pressure lowering possible when combined with antihypertensive drugs or other vasodilatory supplements
- -May inhibit CYP2C19 and modulate CYP3A4, potentially altering plasma levels of drugs metabolized by these enzymes
- -Can potentiate effects of SSRIs and MAOIs - combination should be used with caution due to serotonergic and bleeding interaction risk
Cost & Where to Buy
Cost varies significantly based on standardization and brand quality. Verified EGb 761 extracts from reputable brands (e.g., Doctor's Best, NOW, Schwabe Pharma) cost more but offer consistent potency. Generic or non-standardized products may be cheaper but are less reliable.
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