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Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a popular supplement and one of the top-selling herbal medicines.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is one of the oldest living tree species.
CAS Number: 90045-36-6
EC Number: 289-896-6
SYNONYMS:
Ginkgo leaf extract, Ginkgo biloba extract, Ginkgo biloba powder, Ginkgo extract, Ginkgo folium extract, Maidenhair tree extract, Ginkgo biloba leaf powder, Ginkgo biloba leaves
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species.
It is also one of the best-selling herbal supplements in the United States and Europe.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is one of the oldest living tree species.
Most Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract products are made with extract prepared from its fan-shaped leaves.
The most helpful components of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract are believed to be flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant qualities, and terpenoids, which help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the "stickiness" of platelets.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is commonly available as an oral tablet, extract, capsule or tea.
Most research on Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract focuses on its effect on dementia, memory and pain caused by too little blood flow (claudication).
There are many possible health benefits of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, including memory enhancement, reduced anxiety, and glaucoma.
There are possible risks and side effects as well.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a popular supplement and one of the top-selling herbal medicines.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is collected from the dried green leaves of the plant and is available as liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets.
The therapeutic properties of the ginkgo plant are said to include treatment for blood disorders and memory problems, enhancement of cardiovascular function and to improve eye health.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, antioxidants that provide protection against oxidative cell damage from harmful free radicals.
In this way, antioxidants are believed to help reduce the risk of cancer.
Also known as the maidenhair tree, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is one of the oldest species of tree in the world.
The trees can grow more than 130 feet tall and can live for over 1,000 years.
Some trees in China are said to be over 2,500 years old.
The tree is considered to be a “living fossil,” meaning that it has continued to survive even after major extinction events.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a large tree with fan-shaped leaves.
The leaves are commonly included in supplements and taken by mouth for memory problems.
The ginkgo tree is thought to be one of the oldest living trees, dating back more than 200 million years.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but is also now grown in Europe and the United States.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract seems to improve blood circulation, and might also act as an antioxidant to slow down changes in the brain.
Because Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has been around for so long, people have used it for many purposes.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract's commonly taken by mouth for memory and thought problems, anxiety, vision problems, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains the whole plant along with a standardized extract.
Look for Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract products that contain standardized gingko leaf extracts.
USES and APPLICATIONS of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
The number of studies on Ginkgo biloba leaves is rapidly increasing.
A variety of effects of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract (GBLE) have been identified.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains many different flavone glycosides and terpenoides.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has an antioxidant action as a free radical scavenger, a relaxing effect on vascular walls, an antagonistic action on platelet-activating factor, an improving effect on blood flow or microcirculation, and a stimulating effect on neurotransmitters.
Besides a direct scavenging action on active oxygen species, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on inflammatory cells by suppressing the production of active oxygen and nitrogen species.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract inhibited the increase in the products of the oxidative decomposition low-density lipoprotein (LDL), reduced the cell death in various types of neuropathy, and prevented the oxidative damage to mitochondria, suggesting that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract exhibits beneficial effects on neuron degenerative diseases by preventing chronic oxidative damage.
The study using a model of ischemia-reperfusion injury has also demonstrated the protective effect of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract on cardiac muscle and its antioxidative action in vivo.
Favorable results have been obtained in double-blind, placebo-controlled, comparative trials of patients with memory disorders, obstructive arteriosclerosis, and dementia.
We review the recent studies on Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract with respect to its various pharmacological actions, such as a scavenging activity on free radicals and an inhibitory action on lipid peroxidation.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract shows a very strong scavenging action on free radicals, and is thus considered to be useful for the treatment of diseases related to the production of free radicals, such as ischemic heart disease, cerebral infarction, chronic inflammation, and aging.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has a long history of use in treating blood disorders and memory issues.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is best known today as way to potentially keep your memory sharp.
Laboratory studies have shown that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract improves blood circulation by opening up blood vessels and making blood less sticky.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is also an antioxidant.
For those reasons, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may improve vein and eye health.
Although not all studies agree, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help treat dementia (including Alzheimer disease) and intermittent claudication, or poor circulation in the legs.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may also protect memory in older adults.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are both antioxidants.
In your body, harmful particles called free radicals build up as you age, and may contribute to heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer disease. Antioxidants like those found in Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract fight off free radicals, and stop them from damaging DNA and other cells.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can be taken as a supplement, and the dried leaves of the plant can be used to make tea.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has been used for improving blood flow, for improving memory/concentration due to certain brain problems (such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia), and for relief of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), eye problems, and dizziness.
-Memory problems and Alzheimer disease:
Many studies have used 120 to 240 mg daily in divided doses, standardized to contain 24 to 32% flavone glycosides (flavonoids or heterosides) and 6 to 12% triterpene lactones (terpenoids).
Intermittent claudication: Studies have used 120 to 240 mg per day.
It can take 4 to 6 weeks to see any effects from Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract .
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a natural mixture of phytochemicals, including flavonoids and terpenoids, known for its antioxidant properties and ability to regulate nitric oxide production.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract also exhibits neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative injury in mitochondria and possessing anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit neuroinflammation.
MEDICINAL USES AND INDICATIONS OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
*Dementia and Alzheimer disease
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is widely used in Europe for treating dementia.
At first, doctors thought Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract helped because it improves blood flow to the brain.
Now research suggests Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may protect nerve cells that are damaged in Alzheimer disease.
Several studies show that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has a positive effect on memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer disease or vascular dementia.
Studies suggest that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help people with Alzheimer disease:
*Improve thinking, learning, and memory (cognitive function)
Have an easier time performing daily activities
Improve social behavior
Have fewer feelings of depression
Several studies have found that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may work as well as some prescription Alzheimer disease medications to delay the symptoms of dementia.
It has not been tested against all of the drugs prescribed to treat Alzheimer disease.
In 2008, a well-designed study with more than 3,000 elderly people found that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract was no better than placebo in preventing dementia or Alzheimer disease.
*Intermittent claudication
Because Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract improves blood flow, it has been studied in people with intermittent claudication, or pain caused by reduced blood flow to the legs.
People with intermittent claudication have a hard time walking without feeling extreme pain.
An analysis of 8 studies showed that people taking Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract tended to walk about 34 meters farther than those taking placebo.
In fact, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has been shown to work as well as a prescription medication in improving pain-free walking distance.
However, regular walking exercises work better than Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract in improving walking distance.
*Anxiety
One preliminary study found that a special formulation of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract called EGB 761 might help relieve anxiety.
People with generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder who took Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract had fewer anxiety symptoms than those who took placebo.
*Glaucoma
One small study found that people with glaucoma who took 120 mg of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract daily for 8 weeks had improvements in their vision.
*Memory and thinking
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is widely touted as a "brain herb."
Some studies show that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract does help improve memory in people with dementia.
It is not as clear whether Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract helps memory in healthy people who have normal, age-related memory loss.
Some studies have found slight benefits, while other studies have found no effect.
Some studies have found that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract helps improve memory and thinking in young and middle-aged people who are healthy.
And preliminary studies suggest Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may be useful in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The dose that works best seems to be 240 mg per day.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is often added to nutrition bars, soft drinks, and fruit smoothies to boost memory and enhance mental performance, although such small amounts probably do not help.
*Macular degeneration
The flavonoids found in Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help stop or reduce some problems with the retina, the back part of the eye.
Macular degeneration, often called age-related macular degeneration or AMD, is an eye disease that affects the retina.
The number one cause of blindness in the Unites States, AMD is a degenerative eye disease that gets worse as time goes on.
Some studies suggest that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help preserve vision in those with AMD.
*Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Two studies with a somewhat complicated dosing schedule found that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract helped reduce PMS symptoms.
Women in the studies took a special extract of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract beginning on day 16 of their menstrual cycle and stopped taking it after day 5 of their next cycle, then took it again on day 16.
*Raynaud's phenomenon
One well-designed study found that people with Raynaud's phenomenon who took Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract over a 10-week period had fewer symptoms than those who took placebo.
FAST FACTS ABOUT GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
*Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a top-selling supplement containing an extract that comes from a tree.
*Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help with cognitive function.
*Traditional uses of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract include soothing a bladder infection and increasing sexual energy.
*People who use some types of antidepressants should not use Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract.
BENEFITS OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may offer a range of health benefits, including improving cognitive function.
Traditional uses of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract are wide-ranging, but not all of them have been confirmed by research.
Memory enhancement, dementia, and Alzheimer’s
There is some evidence indicating that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can help people with dementia, although more studies are required to confirm this.
THE BENEFITS OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT MAY INCLUDE:
The benefits may include:
*improved thinking and memory
*better social behavior
*better ability to perform everyday tasks
*One study found that an extract of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, known as EGb 761, was clinically effective in treating Alzheimer’s dementia.
Researchers believe that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract improves cognitive function because it promotes good blood circulation in the brain and protects the brain and other parts from neuronal damage.
*Anxiety
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.
A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, found that people with generalized anxiety disorder who took Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract experienced betterTrusted Source anxiety relief than those who took a placebo.
However, people who take Xanax for anxiety should not use Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, because it may reduce the drug’s effectiveness.
*Glaucoma
One small study observed improvements in the vision of people with glaucoma who took 120 milligrams a day of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract over a period of 8 weeks.
Some studies have also suggested that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help people with macular degeneration to keep their sight for longer.
DOSAGE AND FORM OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is available in capsule form, as tablets, liquid extracts, and dried leaf for teas.
In studies, adults have used between 120 and 240 milligrams a day in divided doses.
It appears to take 4 to 6 weeks before improvements are noticed.
People who should not take gingko biloba include:
*children
*pregnant or breastfeeding women
*those with epilepsy
*people taking blood thinners
*Patients with diabetes should not use Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract without first checking with a physician.
AVAILABLE FORMS OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Standardized extracts containing 24 to 32% flavonoids (also known as flavone glycosides or heterosides) and 6 to 12% terpenoids (triterpene lactones)
Capsules
Tablets
Liquid extracts (tinctures, fluid extracts, and glycerites)
Dried leaf for teas
HOW TO TAKE GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Pediatric
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract should not be given to children.
Adult
PLANT DESCRIPTION OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Ginkgo biloba is the oldest living tree species. A single tree can live as long as 1,000 years and grow to a height of 120 feet.
It has short branches with fan-shaped leaves and inedible fruits that smell bad.
The fruit has an inner seed, which may be poisonous.
Ginkgos are tough, hardy trees and are sometimes planted along urban streets in the United States.
The leaves turn brilliant colors in the fall.
Although Chinese herbal medicine has used both the ginkgo leaf and seed for thousands of years, modern research has focused on the standardized Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract made from the dried green leaves.
This standardized extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, is highly concentrated and seems to treat health problems (particularly circulatory problems) better than the non-standardized leaf alone.
WHAT IS GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT MADE OF?
Scientists have found more than 40 components in ginkgo.
Only two are believed to act as medicine: flavonoids and terpenoids.
Flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants.
Laboratory and animal studies show that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels, and retina from damage.
Terpenoids (such as ginkgolides) improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of platelets.
HOW TO USE GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Take Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract by mouth as directed.
Follow all directions on the product package.
If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product for memory loss or brain problems.
Your condition may require medical attention.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract should not be used for more than 3 months at a time.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
12 BENEFITS OF GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may also be beneficial for heart health, brain function, and eye health, along with several other conditions.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, or maidenhair, is a tree native to China that has been grown for thousands of years for a variety of uses.
Because Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s the only surviving member of an ancient order of plants, it’s sometimes referred to as a living fossil.
While its leaves and seeds are often used in traditional Chinese medicine, modern research primarily focuses on Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, which is made from the leaves.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract supplements are associated with several health claims and uses, most of which focus on brain function and blood circulation.
Here are 12 benefits of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract.
1. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains powerful antioxidants
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s antioxidant content may be the reason behind many of its health claims.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects.
Antioxidants combat or neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals.
Free radicals are highly reactive particles that are produced in the body during normal metabolic functions, such as converting food to energy or detoxification.
Yet, they also have the potential to damage healthy tissues, contributing to accelerated aging and disease development.
Research on Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s antioxidant effects is promising.
However, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract remains unclear exactly how it works and how effective it may be at treating specific diseases.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract contains potent antioxidants, which fight the damaging effects of free radicals and may be behind most of its health claims.
2. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can help reduce inflammation
Inflammation is part of the body’s natural response to injury or invasion by a foreign substance.
In the inflammatory response, various components of the immune system are recruited to fight against the foreign invader or heal the injured area.
Some chronic diseases trigger an inflammatory response even when there is no illness or injury present.
Over time, this excessive inflammation can cause permanent damage to the body’s tissues and DNA.
Years of animal and test-tube research shows that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can reduce markers of inflammation in both human and animal cells in a variety of disease states.
Some specific conditions in which Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has shown to reduce inflammation include:
*arthritis
*inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
*cancer
*heart disease
*stroke
While this data is encouraging, human studies are needed before drawing concrete conclusions about Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s role in treating these complex diseases.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has the ability to reduce inflammation caused by various conditions.
This may be one of the reasons it has such broad health applications.
3. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract improves circulation and heart health
In traditional Chinese medicine, ginkgo seeds were used to open “channels” of energy to different organ systems, including the kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s apparent ability to increase blood flow to various parts of the body may be the origin of many of its supposed benefits.
One older study in people with heart disease who supplemented with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract revealed an immediate increase in blood flow to multiple parts of the body.
This was attributed to a 12% increase in levels of circulating nitric oxide, a compound responsible for dilating blood vessels.
Similarly, another 2008 study showed the same effect in older adults who were treated with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract.
Additional research also points to Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s protective effects on heart health, brain health, and stroke prevention.
There are multiple potential explanations for this, one of which may be the anti-inflammatory compounds present in the plant.
More research is needed to fully understand how Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract affects circulation and heart and brain health.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can increase blood flow by promoting the dilation of blood vessels.
This may have applications for the treatment of diseases related to poor circulation.
4. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract reduces symptoms of psychiatric disorders and dementia
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has been repeatedly evaluated for its ability to reduce anxiety, stress, and other symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline linked to aging.
Overall, research results are inconsistent in this area.
Some studies show a marked reduction in the rate of cognitive decline in people with dementia using Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, but others fail to replicate this result.
For example, one review of 21 studies revealed that when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may increase functional capabilities in those with mild Alzheimer’s.
Another review evaluated four studies and found a significant reduction in a spectrum of symptoms associated with dementia when Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract was used for 22–24 weeks.
These positive results could be related to the role that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may play in improving blood flow to the brain, especially as it relates to vascular types of dementia.
Overall, it’s too soon to definitively state or refute Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s role in treating dementia, but recent research is beginning to make this piece clearer.
Summary
It cannot be concluded that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract treats Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, but it might help in some cases.
The chances of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract helping seem to increase when used alongside conventional treatment.
5. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract improves brain function and well-being
There is some speculation that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may enhance brain function in healthy individuals.
A handful of small, older studies support the notion that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may increase mental performance and perceived well-being.
Results from studies like these have given rise to claims linking Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract to improved memory, focus, and attention span.
However, a 2012 review of research on this relationship concluded that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract did not result in any measurable improvements in memory, executive function, or attention capacity.
While supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may improve mental capability, more studies are needed.
Summary
Some research shows that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may improve mental performance in healthy people, but the data is inconsistent.
6. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can reduce anxiety
Some research indicates that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may reduce symptoms of anxiety.
A handful of animal studies have observed reductions in anxiety symptoms that may be attributed to the antioxidant content of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract.
In one 2007 study, 170 people with generalized anxiety were treated with either 240 milligrams (mg) of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, 480 mg of ginkgo, or a placebo.
The group treated with the highest dose of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract reported a 45% greater reduction in symptoms of anxiety, compared to the placebo group.
While supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may reduce anxiety, it’s still too early to draw any definitive conclusions from the available research.
Summary
Some research shows that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help treat anxiety, though this is likely due to its antioxidant content.
7. Can treat depression
A review of animal studies suggests that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help treat symptoms of depression.
One human study in 136 older adults also found that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract could improve symptoms of depression and reduce levels of S100B, a marker of brain injury, when paired with an antidepressant.
Another study showed that older adults with post-stroke depression who took Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract alongside an antidepressant for 8 weeks experienced significant reductions in symptoms of depression compared to taking an antidepressant alone.
Nonetheless, depression is a complex condition that may have a variety of root causes.
More research is needed to better understand the relationship between Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract and how it may affect depression in the general population.
Summary
Some studies in animals and humans suggest that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help reduce symptoms of depression, especially if used alongside other treatments.
However, more research is needed.
8. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can support vision and eye health
Very little research has investigated how Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract relates to vision and eye health.
However, early results are promising.
One review showed that people with glaucoma who supplemented with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract experienced increased blood flow to the eye, but this didn’t necessarily translate to better vision.
Another 2013 review of two studies evaluated the effect of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract on the progression of age-related macular degeneration.
Some participants reported an improvement in vision, but this wasn’t statistically significant across the board.
Many of these positive results seem to be related to increased blood flow to the eye.
It’s unclear if Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract would improve vision in those who don’t already have vision impairment.
More research is needed to determine whether Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can increase vision capacity or slow the progression of degenerative eye disease.
Summary
Some early research shows that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may increase blood flow to the eyes but not necessarily improve vision.
More research is needed.
9. Can treat headaches and migraines
In traditional Chinese medicine, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is a very popular treatment for headaches and migraines.
Very little research is available on Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s ability to treat headaches.
However, depending on the root cause of the headache, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help.
For example, it’s well known that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
If a headache or migraine is caused by excessive stress, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may be useful.
Additionally, if a headache is related to reduced blood flow or constricted blood vessels, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’s ability to dilate blood vessels may improve symptoms.
On the contrary, some migraines are caused by the excessive dilation of blood vessels.
In this situation, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may have little to no effect.
Keep in mind that these examples are just inferences and don’t substitute hard evidence.
If you want to try Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract for your migraines, it’s unlikely that it will cause much harm. Just be aware that it may not necessarily help.
Summary
Because of its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may be an effective treatment for some types of headaches.
However, more research is needed.
10. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract can improve asthma and COPD symptoms
Some research indicates that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may improve symptoms of asthma and other inflammatory respiratory diseases like COPD.
This is attributed to the anti-inflammatory compounds in Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, which may allow for reduced inflammation of the airways and increased lung capacity.
One older study in 75 people evaluated the use of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract alongside glucocorticosteroid medication therapy for managing asthma symptoms.
The levels of inflammatory compounds in the saliva of those who received Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract were significantly lower than those who received traditional medication alone.
Another 2013 study in 100 people evaluated the use of a mixture of Chinese herbs, which included Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, for treating COPD symptoms.
Those who used the herbal formula reported a considerable reduction in cough and bronchitis at a 3-month follow-up, compared to the control group.
At this point, it cannot be determined if this improvement can be attributed to Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract alone, or if it was a synergistic effect of the other herbs used in the treatment group formula.
While these results are encouraging, more research on this specific application of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is needed.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may treat symptoms associated with respiratory diseases because of its anti-inflammatory effects.
More research is needed.
11. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract reduces PMS symptoms
Preliminary research indicates that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help treat both the physical and psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
One older study in 85 college students revealed a 23% reduction in reported PMS symptoms when consuming Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract.
Interestingly, the placebo group in this study also experienced a slight reduction in PMS symptoms, though it was much lower, at around 8.8%.
Further research is needed to better understand the cause and effect relationship between Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract and PMS symptoms.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may help reduce PMS symptoms, but more research is needed.
12. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract treats sexual dysfunction
Some sources indicate that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may treat issues related to sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction or low libido.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract has the ability to improve blood levels of nitric oxide, which improves circulation via the dilation of blood vessels.
As a result, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may also be useful for treating various symptoms of sexual dysfunction by improving blood flow to those areas of the body.
Some research has investigated using Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract to treat sexual dysfunction caused by the use of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs).
Results indicated that Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract wasn’t any more effective than a placebo in these cases.
Additionally, there may be an interaction between Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract and SSRI medications, which could render them less effective.
One 2008 study evaluated the use of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract to increase sexual desire and contentment in females who were concurrently undergoing sexual psychotherapy.
The combination of Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract and therapy were effective over a longer term compared to a placebo, but supplementing with ginkgo alone was not.
The rationale for using Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract to treat sexual dysfunction makes sense, but research does not support it at this time.
Summary
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract may improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction due to its impact on blood flow.
However, research has not proven it to be effective.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
CAS Number: 90045-36-6
EC Number: 289-896-6
Appearance: Brownish-yellow powder
Solubility: Soluble in water
pH: Typically between 5.0 and 7.0
Molecular Weight: Varies based on the extract composition
Density: Varies depending on the preparation
Boiling Point: Not applicable
Melting Point: Not applicable
Extraction Method: Typically ethanol or acetone extraction
Main Active Compounds: Flavonoids (24%), Terpene lactones (6%)
FIRST AID MEASURES of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature) .
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
