Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo, is one of the world's oldest living tree species, earning it the name "living fossil". Its existence can be traced back more than 200 million years, and it has been cultivated and used for centuries, particularly in China. The ginkgo tree grows up to 100 metres tall and is recognised by its distinctive fan shaped leaves, which resemble two lobes and give rise to the species name biloba.
Today, extracts made from the leaves of the ginkgo tree are widely used in herbal supplements and continue to be the subject of extensive scientific investigation. In fact, ginkgo is one of the most widely studied herbal medicines worldwide.
The leaves of the ginkgo tree contain a variety of naturally occurring compounds, including flavonoids and ginkgolides. These constituents have attracted scientific interest for their antioxidant activity and their potential role in supporting healthy brain function and circulation.
What is Ginkgo biloba good for?
Over the past several decades, hundreds of scientific studies have investigated the properties and potential applications of ginkgo biloba leaf extract. Much of this research has focused on cognitive function, memory, concentration, peripheral circulation and antioxidant activity. Researchers have also explored a variety of other health applications, although the strength of evidence varies depending on the area being studied.
Memory Recall and Cognitive Function
Ginkgo biloba is perhaps best known for its association with cognitive function. Researchers have investigated its role in supporting memory, concentration, and mental performance, as people age.
Some studies suggest that ginkgo may help support cognitive processes such as memory and concentration. Researchers have also explored whether some of these effects may be related to circulation, as blood delivers oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, including to the brain.
The flavonoids and ginkgolides found naturally in ginkgo leaves have also been investigated for their activity within the nervous system, contributing to ongoing scientific interest in this herb and its relationship with the brain.
Peripheral Circulation
Ginkgo biloba has also been studied for its effects on circulation throughout the body.
Peripheral circulation refers to blood flow to the body's extremities, including the hands and feet. Researchers have investigated the effects of ginkgo's naturally occurring constituents, including flavonoids and ginkgolides, on healthy circulation and blood flow throughout the body.
Because circulation plays an important role in delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues, maintaining healthy peripheral circulation is an important aspect of overall wellbeing.
Antioxidant Support and Free Radicals
Ginkgo biloba contains naturally occurring flavonoids that possess antioxidant properties.
The body continually produces free radicals as part of normal metabolism and through exposure to environmental factors. Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals and assist in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Researchers have suggested that the antioxidant activity of ginkgo may contribute to its broad range of investigated applications, particularly in areas involving the nervous system and healthy ageing.
Areas of Ongoing Research
In addition to cognitive function, circulation and antioxidant activity, researchers have explored a variety of other potential applications for ginkgo biloba.
These include areas such as balance disorders including vertigo, skin conditions such as vitiligo, and aspects of sexual function. While some studies have reported promising findings, the evidence remains mixed and further research is required before firm conclusions can be drawn.
As research continues, ginkgo biloba remains one of the most extensively studied herbal medicines in modern scientific literature.
Is Ginkgo biloba Safe to Take Daily?
It is advisable to speak with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
When taken as directed, ginkgo biloba is generally well tolerated by most people. If you are taking prescription medications or other supplements, professional advice should be sought before use.
Ginkgo biloba contains a constituents which may influence blood clotting and bleeding time. For this reason, ginkgo may not be suitable for people taking blood thinning medications or those with certain bleeding disorders.
The information in this article is general in nature and is not intended as medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or nutritional needs, speak with your healthcare professional. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
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Corazza, O. et al. (2014), Sexual Enhanced Products for Sale Online: Raising Awareness of the Psychoactive Effects of Yohimbine, Maca, Horny Goat Weed and Ginkgo biloba, BioMed Research International, sponsored by Hindawi Publishing Corporation
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