Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba
Key Facts
- Scientific Name
- Ginkgo biloba
- Plant Family
- Ginkgoaceae (Ginkgo family)
- Origin
- Native to China
- Primary Use
- Cognitive Support
Overview
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species and its leaves are among the most extensively studied herbs in use today.
Traditional Uses
Widely used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and one of the oldest homeopathic plants.
Active Compounds
Contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known for their potent antioxidant effects.
Potential Benefits — Unverified Summary
Known for boosting cognitive health, impacting anxiety, improving memory, and potentially helping with peripheral nerve damage.
Safety & Side Effects
Ginkgo supplements can interact with blood thinners and may increase the risk of bleeding. Only leaf extract should be used.
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, severe rash)
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Severe digestive issues (persistent vomiting, bloody stools)
- Severe headache or dizziness
- Any symptoms that worsen or do not improve
Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal supplements if you:
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
- Are taking prescription medications
- Have a chronic health condition
- Are scheduled for surgery
- Are giving herbs to children
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ginkgo Biloba used for?
Known for boosting cognitive health, impacting anxiety, improving memory, and potentially helping with peripheral nerve damage.
Is Ginkgo Biloba safe?
Ginkgo supplements can interact with blood thinners and may increase the risk of bleeding. Only leaf extract should be used.
What are the active compounds in Ginkgo Biloba?
Contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known for their potent antioxidant effects.
What is the scientific name of Ginkgo Biloba?
The scientific name of Ginkgo Biloba is Ginkgo biloba.
What are the traditional uses of Ginkgo Biloba?
Widely used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and one of the oldest homeopathic plants.
When should I see a doctor when using Ginkgo Biloba?
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Ginkgo Biloba or any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, have a chronic health condition, or are scheduled for surgery. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe digestive issues, or any symptoms that worsen or do not improve. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Source Records — Verification Pending
These identifiers were recorded in the original dataset. They are not complete citations or evidence that the claims above have been checked.
- PMC1127780
- SystematicReview-2013