Ginkgo Biloba Supplements: Benefits, Dosage and Safety

Summary

Ginkgo supplements are among the best-selling memory products, yet a large trial of more than 3,000 older adults found ginkgo didn't prevent dementia or memory decline. Evidence for tinnitus is also negative. Ginkgo may increase bleeding risk.

Evidence at a glance

UseGradeWhat the research shows
Preventing memory decline or dementiaDNo benefit in the GEM trial.
TinnitusDNo meaningful benefit in reviews.

A: strong, consistent human evidence · B: moderate · C: limited or mixed · D: good evidence of no benefit.

Ginkgo comes from one of the oldest living tree species.

How to take it

We don't recommend ginkgo for memory or tinnitus. See brain health supplements for better-supported options.

Safety and interactions

May increase bleeding, especially with blood thinners or before surgery. Raw seeds are poisonous.

Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about the supplements you take. Check combinations with our interaction checker.

Sources

  1. NCCIH: Ginkgo
  2. DeKosky ST et al. Ginkgo biloba for prevention of dementia: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2008

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