Gingko Biloba 101
Traditional Chinese medicine has been using Ginkgo seeds to heal people for generations. Today, many people use ginkgo leaf extracts to improve memory. They also use ginkgo to treat or help prevent Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia.
What the Science Says
There have been many studies on ginkgo. The results have been mixed. Larger,
well-designed research studies are needed. The National Center for
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is conducting a large clinical
trial of ginkgo with more than 3,000 volunteers. The aim is to see if the herb
prevents the onset of dementia and, specifically, Alzheimer's disease.
NCCAM is also looking at potential interactions between ginkgo and prescription
drugs.
Side Effects and Cautions
Like other herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, there is a risk
of side effects to taking ginkogo biloba. People including the following:
- headache
- nausea
- gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea
- dizziness
- allergic skin reactions
- increased bleeding risk
Remember: It is important to inform your health care providers about any herbal or dietary supplement you take, including Ginkgo Biloba.
For more information, visit: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ginkgo/
Source: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), National Institutes of Health
