Can this antioxidant-rich herb boost your brain health?
It is often touted as a natural brain booster, enhancing focus and supporting overall cognitive health.
Other purported benefits include potentially reducing anxiety and improving blood circulation.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
If you are thinking about trying ginkgo biloba, talk to your healthcare provider first.
Scientific studies support some, but not all ginkgo benefits.
However, the study also stated that more large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed.
Anxiety
Some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may help relievesymptoms of anxiety.
Such results may be due to increased antioxidant levels.
However, there is not yet enough evidence to conclusively say that the supplement may help treat anxiety.
Eye Health
Ginkgo biloba shows promise in the treatment of glaucoma and other eye diseases.
Ginkgo biloba contains natural properties that act as antioxidants and improve blood flow.
This effect has been shown to reduce retinal degeneration.
There’s also evidence of Ginkgo biloba producing color vision improvements for patients with diabetic retinopathy.
Blood Pressure
There is insufficient evidence of whether ginkgo biloba can help treat high blood pressure.
A 2022 review found that the plant has myocardial suppressant and vasorelaxant effects.
Some studies have shown a significant decrease in blood pressure, while others showed no effect.
More rigorous research is needed before ginkgo biloba can be recommended for blood pressure control.
Some cases of bleeding have occurred in individuals who were not on another blood thinner.
Pregnant women shouldn’t take ginkgo.
Ginkgo contains a compound called ginkgotoxin.
Structurally similar to vitamin B6, it has been found to block vitamin B6 activity.
After treatment, which included vitamin B6 medication, her symptoms resolved and no seizures recurred.
Different formulations and doses have been used in research studies investigating the herb’s effect on various conditions.
As always, speak with your healthcare provider to get personalized advice regarding the right dose for you.
Allergic reactions are also possible, so be on the watch for possible skin reactions.
There is a concern of an increased risk of bleeding and seizures from case reports.
Many health food markets and vitamin shops sell this product.
This label will contain vital information including the amount of active ingredients per serving.
These organizations include U.S. Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, and NSF International.
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Silva H, Martins FG.Cardiovascular activity of ginkgo biloba-An insight from healthy subjects.Biology (Basel).
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Poison Control.Ginkgo biloba: Risks and benefits.
