Ginkgo Biloba is a tree native to China. Ginkgo contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, both compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects.  

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Ginkgo extract is made from the leaves of the ginkgo tree. Research suggests that Ginkgo supplements are associated with better brain function and blood circulation.

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According to Healthline*, the benefits of ginkgo biloba are:

 

“Reduced Inflammation

Some chronic diseases trigger an inflammatory response even when there is no illness or injury present. Over time, this excessive inflammation can cause permanent damage to the body’s tissues and DNA. Years of animal and test-tube research shows that ginkgo extract can reduce markers of inflammation in both human and animal cells in a variety of disease states. Ginkgo extract has shown to reduce inflammations in arthritis, irritable bowel disease, cancer, heart disease, stroke.

 

Improved Circulation and Heart Health

One study in people with heart disease who supplemented with ginkgo revealed an immediate increase in blood flow to multiple parts of the body. The research points to ginkgo’s protective effects on heart health, brain health and stroke prevention. There are multiple potential explanations for this, one of which may be the anti-inflammatory compounds present in the plant.

 

Reduced Symptoms of Psychiatric Disorders and Dementia

Ginkgo has been repeatedly evaluated for its ability to reduce anxiety, stress and other symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline associated with ageing. A review of 21 studies revealed that when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, ginkgo extract may increase functional capabilities in those with mild Alzheimer’s.

 

Reduced Anxiety

Some research indicates, that supplementing with ginkgo may reduce symptoms of anxiety. In one study, 170 people with generalised anxiety were treated with either 240 mg or 480 mg of ginkgo or a placebo. The group treated with the highest dose of ginkgo reported a 45% greater reduction in symptoms of anxiety, compared to the placebo group.

 

Can Treat Depression

A review of animal studies suggests that supplementing with ginkgo may help treat symptoms of depression. The study indicated that this effect was related to ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory properties, which improve the body’s ability to cope when stress hormone levels are high. Nonetheless, depression is a complex condition that may have a variety of root causes.”

 

Sources

 

1. Aging and Disease. Advances in the Studies of Ginkgo Biloba Leaves Extract on Aging-Related Diseases. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758353/.
    

2. Healthline. 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginkgo-biloba-benefits.   
    

3. PubMed.gov. Ginkgo Biloba Extract 761: A Review of Basic Studies and Potential Clinical Use in Psychiatric Disorders. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25642989/.
    

4. PubMed.gov. Ginkgo Biloba for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26059355/. 
    

5. Wikipedia. Ginkgo Biloba.  Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginkgo_biloba. 

 

 

Disclaimer

 

* Healthline content has been edited for brevity. For the full description, including sources, please visit: 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba on Healthline.com. 

 

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