Learn about incredible benefits of Ginkgo Biloba and learn how to use it.

Named somewhat exotic, Ginkgo Biloba is a tree that can reach over 40 meters. Ginkgo Biloba extract is obtained from the leaves of this tree that are of Chinese, Japanese and Korean origin. However, as highlighted by the medical nurse Ana Luisa Vilela, these days, it is found in many places around the world, including Brazil.

Considered a living fossil, Ginkgo Biloba is millions of years old. "There are several benefits attributed to Ginkgo Biloba, including one of the 10 most used medicinal herbs in the world," says the medical nutritionist.

Clarissa Fujiwara, nutritionist and Master of Science from the University of São Paulo (USP), Nutrition Coordinator of the HC-FMUSP Childhood Obesity League, member of the Brazilian Association for the Study of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (ABESO) and the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) comments that the Ginkgo Biloba extract is made up of: flavonoids (such as kaempferol, quercetin), biflavonoids (eg amentoflavone, bilobetin, ginkgetine and isoginkgetine) and terpenes (such as ginkgolides).


It is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs nationally and worldwide and although there is no established consensus on the effectiveness of its action and benefits, this extract is attributed pharmacological properties mainly in increasing blood flow to tissues and inhibiting aggregation. platelet ?, highlights the nutritionist.

Ginkgo Biloba's Amazing Benefits

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1. Benefits neurological health

Clarissa explains that Ginkgo Biloba is used to improve diseases and symptoms resulting from impaired oxygen flow to tissues (a condition called hypoxia), benefiting neurological health, such as impaired cognitive functions and memory loss, tinnitus, early stages of dementia, among others.

Ginkgo Biloba's pharmacological properties are described based on the protective effects of organic brain disease and its functional manifestations (memory impairment, concentration difficulties) and senility (or aging) -related neurodegenerative processes due to increased oxygen and nutrient supply to nerve cells and brain ischemia treatment ?, explains the nutritionist.


"In addition to the neuroprotective effects, the improvement in choline uptake"? substance needed for synthesis of acetylcholine, a chemical mediator of synapses? in the hippocampus region, improving memorization processes and learning capacity ?, adds the nutritionist.

2. Benefits the circulatory system

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Due to its activity in arterial vasodilation, increased blood circulation at various levels and, consequently, improved tissue irrigation, it is indicated in the case of circulatory system diseases such as arteriopathies, impaired microcirculation and tingling, capillary fragility. and treatment of varicose veins ?, explains Clarissa.

3. Decreases the risk of thrombosis.

Clarissa explains that the herb still acts by decreasing the risk of thrombosis by lower platelet aggregation, as it inhibits platelet aggregation factor (PAF) and contributes to decreased blood viscosity.

4. Has antioxidant action

"Bioactive compounds have antioxidant action being of potential benefit in all situations in which intense oxidation occurs and reduction of damage caused by free radicals such as cell aging," explains Clarissa.

Ginkgo extract is used as a complementary therapeutic strategy in the face of migraine and otolaryngology disorders, such as labyrinthitis. Due to the antioxidant action, it acts positively in ophthalmic diseases, by reducing retinal cell damage and macular degeneration ?, adds the nutritionist.

Proven Benefits?

Although many benefits are attributed to this medicinal herb, are they all proven? Is Ginkgo really that beneficial?

The medical nurse Ana Luisa points out that Ginkgo Biloba has proven antioxidant action. "It causes vasodilation of the cerebral blood vessels, increasing the perfusion of blood in the brain, prevents clot formation and optimizes the utilization of glucose by the brain," he says.

However, Ana Luisa points out, there is no scientific evidence that Ginkgo Biloba actually has effective action in the treatment and prevention of diseases such as Alzheimer's and stroke.

? A study published in 2008 that tracked over 3,000 elderly people for 8 years showed that daily use of Ginkgo Biloba showed no evidence that the drug is superior to placebo in preventing dementia. So there is no scientific evidence to support the use of Ginkgo for treatment or prevention of dementias?

But, Ana Luisa points out, there are some problems in which science has been able to prove the effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba. Among them:

  • Vertigo;
  • Erectile dysfunction;
  • Depression;
  • Anxiety disorders;
  • Circulatory problems of the lower limbs (small efficacy, only slightly superior to placebo).

How to consume Ginkgo Biloba?

Clarissa explains that herbal medicine is primarily found in the form of capsules that contain the standardized extract called EGB761, which should contain a minimum content of 24% glycosylated flavonoids and 6% terpenoids. In general, for adults, a daily intake of between 80 and 240 mg (which may be fractionated throughout the day) of Ginkgo Biloba is targeted. Other forms of presentation are solutions or teas, made from leaves ?, he says.

Ana Luisa points out that studies conducted with the extract of Ginkgo Biloba, and also according to the indication of most manufacturers, is recommended to consume 40 mg 3 times a day, or 60 to 80 mg 2 times a day ?, says.

Ginkgo Biloba Side Effects

Ana Luisa points out that Ginkgo Biloba has a low rate of adverse effects. "However, when these occur, they usually present in the form of nausea, headache, diarrhea and abdominal pain," he says.

In addition, according to the physician nutrition doctor, some points should be taken into consideration:

  • Due to lack of clinical studies, the substance is not recommended for pregnant women.
  • Another important point is to always consume with guidance. There are currents that understand that prolonged use without a break can cause kidney and liver overload, so medical follow-up is always important.
  • Due to the inhibitory action on platelets, the risk of bleeding may increase in some situations, so patients undergoing surgical procedures should inform their doctor about the use of the substance.

Clarissa stresses that, while relatively safe, Ginkgo biloba should be used with caution like any other medicine. Adverse reactions may rarely occur in approximately 5% of cases and consist of gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea and abdominal discomfort. Less frequently, side effects such as dizziness and drop in blood pressure, dizziness, headache or increased sensitivity of the skin, causing allergies or skin reactions ?, he says.

"Because of the increased risk of bleeding and bleeding, and considering the potential to potentiate the effect of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, Ginkgo Biloba should be discontinued prior to performing surgical procedures," adds the nutritionist.

Ginkgo Biloba Contraindications

According to Clarissa, the plant is contraindicated for haemophilia patients (disorder that affects blood clotting) and, for lack of evidence for safety, is advised the careful administration under strict clinical control in lactating women (women who are breastfeeding), pregnant women as well as in the pediatric public.

Ana Luisa adds that there are reports that Ginkgo Biloba interferes with anticonvulsant medications. "So people who use this type of medication should consult a doctor before use," concludes the doctor.

Now you know that Ginkgo Biloba can indeed offer interesting health benefits as a whole, but for safe and effective use, medical or nutritional guidance and follow-up is essential.

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