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What is Ginkgo?

Jane Harmon
Jane Harmon

Ginkgo, also known as ginkgo biloba, is an Asian tree that has no contemporary relatives. As such and because ginkgo-like plants are well-represented in the fossil record, it is often referred to as a living fossil. Also called the Maidenhair Tree for its leaves' resemblance to maidenhair fern, it has been under cultivation throughout human history.

The ginkgo leaf is used to make herbal teas and extracts, which have been shown to have a remarkably wide range of positive health effects. It has been a staple of Chinese medicine for hundreds of years.

Ginko appears to have benefits such as improved circulation and memory, but also possible side effects such as blood thinning.
Ginko appears to have benefits such as improved circulation and memory, but also possible side effects such as blood thinning.

Ginkgo has been shown in numerous studies to improve blood flow to the brain, and it is therefore thought to improve concentration and memory. Many students swear by its effects when studying for exams. It improves blood flow in general and as such is useful for circulatory problems that lead to fluid retention in the extremities, such as swollen feet and ankles. Ginkgo has long been thought to heal male impotence, and is a standard herbal remedy for male sexual dysfunction.

People who take certain antidepressants should steer clear of gingko.
People who take certain antidepressants should steer clear of gingko.

Recent studies show that gingko has improved cognitive function of multiple-sclerosis (MS) patients suffering from a loss of alertness, confusion and memory problems. The same study showed that cognitive function of the non-MS control group was unchanged, contradicting earlier claims. Ongoing studies of the effectiveness of ginkgo in allaying the symptoms of early-stage Alzheimer's are promising, but thus far inconclusive.

Recent studies indicate that gingko may improve cognitive function of multiple sclerosis patients.
Recent studies indicate that gingko may improve cognitive function of multiple sclerosis patients.

Many people mistakenly believe, "if it's herbal, it's safe," but this is untrue. Gingko, as with all plants with a medicinal effect, can interfere with prescription drugs or cause unwanted side effects on its own. Gingko should not be taken in conjunction with certain anti-depressants and should be avoided if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Because if its effects on blood flow, persons with blood-clotting disorders who are taking blood thinners should also avoid gingko, which could increase the effects of the prescription drug.

As with all herbal remedies, check with a doctor before embarking on a new regimen. If taking gingko, be sure to inform any future doctors as well, as they will need to take this into account when prescribing medicines for you.

Discussion Comments

stoneMason

@SarahGen-- My dad has been drinking ginkgo tea daily for several months now. He still can't remember where he put the house keys but his concentration has improved.

He used to have very poor concentration and would jump from thought to thought during conversations. He is definitely better at following a conversation now. He says he is working better at the office too.

So I'm not sure if ginkgo has benefits for memory, but it seems to help with concentration.

donasmrs

@anon336351-- Did you take ginkgo for your vertigo? Did it help?

I was also recommended ginkgo herb for my vertigo and I took ginkgo for almost a week. But I couldn't continue with it because it gave me upset stomach and nausea.

Apparently, ginkgo contains something that is also found in poison ivy and I'm allergic to poison ivy. I think this is why I was unable to take it. I wish ginkgo worked for me because it's hard to find herbal remedies for vertigo.

SarahGen

Do ginkgo supplements really help with memory? Has anyone tried them for this?

anon336351

Thank you for this information. I am researching ginkgo due to many medical disorders I am currently dealing with, one being vertigo. A very expensive natural remedy book pointed me to ginkgo and ginger for helping with my vertigo. Of course it will have lots of other benefits as well.

anon20761

I found your site comprehensive and educational.

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    • Ginko appears to have benefits such as improved circulation and memory, but also possible side effects such as blood thinning.
      By: evgenyb
      Ginko appears to have benefits such as improved circulation and memory, but also possible side effects such as blood thinning.
    • People who take certain antidepressants should steer clear of gingko.
      By: ivolodina
      People who take certain antidepressants should steer clear of gingko.
    • Recent studies indicate that gingko may improve cognitive function of multiple sclerosis patients.
      By: designua
      Recent studies indicate that gingko may improve cognitive function of multiple sclerosis patients.
    • Pregnant women should avoid taking ginkgo, also known as ginkgo biloba.
      By: Radek Sturgolewski
      Pregnant women should avoid taking ginkgo, also known as ginkgo biloba.
    • Studies of the effectiveness of ginko is slowing the symptoms of early-stage Alzheimer's are as yet inconclusive.
      By: chuugo
      Studies of the effectiveness of ginko is slowing the symptoms of early-stage Alzheimer's are as yet inconclusive.
    • Ginkgo has long been considered a possible cure for male impotence.
      By: Tomasz Trojanowski
      Ginkgo has long been considered a possible cure for male impotence.
    • Ginkgo may help relieve swollen ankles.
      By: Dusan Kostic
      Ginkgo may help relieve swollen ankles.