Ginkgo Biloba

Also known as: maidenhair tree, EGb 761

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbnootropiccirculation

Recommended Dosage

120–240 mg

With meals, twice daily. Morning and midday preferred.

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: 2026-03-09

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

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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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