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What Is Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is a tree whose leaves are used in herbal supplements. Products commonly contain ginkgo leaf extract in tablets or capsules. It is promoted for memory and other health concerns, but no benefit has been conclusively established for any condition.

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What Is Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is a tree whose leaves are used in herbal supplements. Products commonly contain ginkgo leaf extract in tablets or capsules. It is promoted for memory and other health concerns, but no benefit has been conclusively established for any condition.

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What Is Ginkgo Biloba Used For?

People take ginkgo supplements for memory, concentration, and other concerns. Large studies have found that ginkgo does not prevent dementia. Evidence for improving cognition in healthy adults or treating other conditions remains inconclusive.

How Might Ginkgo Biloba Work?

Ginkgo leaf extract contains several plant compounds studied for effects on cells and circulation. Those findings have not established a reliable treatment effect in people. The ingredients and amounts can differ across supplement products.

How Is Ginkgo Biloba Taken?

Ginkgo leaf extract is commonly sold as an oral supplement. Products have different strengths and directions, so check the individual label. Discuss use with a clinician or pharmacist if you take medicines or have a health condition.

What Are the Risks of Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo leaf extract can cause headache, dizziness, or digestive symptoms. It can increase bleeding risk when taken with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Ginkgo seeds are toxic when eaten, and ginkgo supplements may be unsafe during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ginkgo Biloba

Does ginkgo biloba prevent dementia?

No. Large studies have not found that ginkgo supplements prevent dementia.

Does ginkgo biloba improve memory?

Research has not established a reliable memory benefit, especially in healthy adults. Results from studies of dementia symptoms are inconsistent.

Can ginkgo biloba be taken with warfarin?

Ask the prescribing clinician before combining them. Ginkgo can increase bleeding risk in people taking warfarin.

Are ginkgo seeds safe to eat?

No. Fresh seeds are toxic, and serious effects have also been reported after eating roasted seeds.

References

Ginkgo biloba for cognitive impairment and dementia. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41641880/. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Ginkgo biloba for prevention of dementia: a randomized controlled trial. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19017911/. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Ginkgo: Usefulness and Safety. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ginkgo/index.html. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Herb-Drug Interactions: What the Science Says. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/herb-drug-interactions-science. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

The Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) Study. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/the-ginkgo-evaluation-of-memory-gem-study. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.