Ginkgo Biloba

Also known as: maidenhair tree, EGb 761

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbnootropiccirculation
120–240 mgWith meals, twice daily. Morning and midday preferred.

Ginkgo biloba is one of the most extensively studied herbal supplements, primarily used for cognitive enhancement and cerebrovascular health. Its active compounds — flavone glycosides and terpene lactones — improve blood flow to the brain and exhibit neuroprotective antioxidant effects. While the large GEM trial found no benefit for preventing dementia, smaller trials show improvements in cognitive function for those with existing mild impairment, and consistent evidence supports benefits for peripheral circulation.

TL;DR: Increases cerebral blood flow and has vasodilatory effects. Modest benefit for existing dementia symptoms but does not prevent it.

🧠Cognitive Performance❤️Heart Health🧘Stress & Anxiety
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

3

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

Warfarin/aspirin/blood thinnersHigh Risk

Significant antiplatelet + anticoagulant effect; contraindicated with warfarin

MAOIsModerate

Possible serotonin-like interaction

AnticonvulsantsModerate

May lower seizure threshold (ginkgotoxin)

Important Notes

  • STOP 2 weeks before surgery (antiplatelet)
  • Only use standardized EGb 761 (24% glycosides, 6% terpene lactones)
  • Does NOT prevent dementia in healthy elderly

Clinical Evidence (3 studies)

GEM trial: ginkgo for dementia prevention

DeKosky ST et al. (2008) — JAMA

Ginkgo 120mg BID did not prevent dementia in elderly (n=3,069)

View on PubMed

EGb 761 reduced anxiety in dementia patients

Napryeyenko O & Borzenko I (2007) — Arzneimittelforschung

240mg reduced anxiety in dementia patients; RCT

View on PubMed

Long-term EGb 761 stabilized cognitive function

Le Bars PL et al. (2002) — Neuropsychobiology

Stabilized cognitive function in dementia; 52-week RCT

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Ginkgo Biloba.

L-Theanine

Grade B

Amino acid from green tea. Promotes calm focus (alpha brain waves) without drowsiness. Excellent safety profile.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety🧠 Cognitive Performance

Bacopa Monnieri

Grade B

Ayurvedic herb with strong meta-analytic evidence for memory and learning. Requires consistent use for 8-12 weeks.

🧠 Cognitive Performance🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Phosphatidylserine

Grade B

Phospholipid that supports cell membrane integrity in the brain. FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline. Reduces cortisol.

🧠 Cognitive Performance🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Related Supplements

Bacopa Monnieri

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Ayurvedic herb with strong meta-analytic evidence for memory and learning. Requires consistent use for 8-12 weeks.

L-Theanine

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Amino acid from green tea. Promotes calm focus (alpha brain waves) without drowsiness. Excellent safety profile.

Phosphatidylserine

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Phospholipid that supports cell membrane integrity in the brain. FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline. Reduces cortisol.

Lemon Balm

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Gentle anxiolytic herb that provides calmness without sedation. Pairs well with valerian for sleep. Watch thyroid interactions.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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