Ginkgo Biloba
The ginkgo tree, also known as the maidenhair tree, is one of the oldest living species in the world. This hardy, deciduous tree is cultivated on plantations in many parts of the world, primarily in the United States and China. Ginkgo leaves are picked, dried, and extracted to manufacture ginkgo products, which are marketed widely.
Extracts of Ginkgo biloba can be used to treat:
- limping due to insufficient peripheral blood flow (disorders of peripheral circulation, or intermittent claudication)
- memory loss due to general mental deterioration (dementia) or physical disorders that cause a decrease in mental function (organic brain syndrome)
- dizziness (vertigo) and ringing in the ears (tinnitus), originating from insufficient blood supply to the inner ear
Dose
Ginkgo biloba is available in a variety of product types.
- The recommended daily dose of Ginkgo biloba is a total of 120 to 240 milligrams divided into two to three doses.
- The time limitations for using Ginkgo biloba correspond to the condition:
- Gingko should be used for at least 8 weeks if treating impaired memory. Gingko may be used for more than 3 months if there is evidence of continued effectiveness.
- For disorders of blood vessels in the general circulatory system, the recommended use of ginkgo is at least 6 weeks.
- For vertigo or tinnitus, use should be limited to 6 to 8 weeks, unless there is evidence of continued effectiveness.
Cautions
Situations in which use of Ginkgo biloba is not advised: Do not use Ginkgo biloba in the presence of a specific allergy to ginkgo. The safety of using ginkgo during pregnancy has not been established.
Side Effects
Some possible side effects of using Ginkgo biloba include gastrointestinal upsets, headaches, or allergic skin reactions. Some individuals report irritability or restlessness after taking large doses of ginkgo.
Drug Interactions
Do not use Ginkgo biloba with Coumadin® or other blood-thinning drugs except under medical supervision: Gingko increases the effect of these medications.
