Is Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgo biloba extract) effective in improving memory, as supported by scientific research?

Ginkgo Biloba for Memory Improvement: Scientific Evidence Review

Ginkgo biloba is not recommended for memory improvement as scientific research does not support its effectiveness for enhancing cognitive function in healthy individuals or those with cognitive impairment. 1, 2

Evidence Assessment

Guidelines and High-Quality Evidence

The scientific evidence regarding Ginkgo biloba for memory enhancement shows:

• According to the 2019 Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience review, the effectiveness of Ginkgo biloba to improve walking distance (its most common clinical application) is marginal and not well established, and by extension, its cognitive benefits are similarly questionable 1

• The 2015 ESPEN guidelines on nutrition in dementia explicitly do not recommend supplements like Ginkgo biloba when there is no indication of specific nutrient deficiency 1

• The most definitive evidence comes from the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) study, a large randomized controlled trial with 3,069 participants followed for over 6 years, which found that Ginkgo biloba (120 mg twice daily) did not slow cognitive decline compared to placebo in older adults with either normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment 2

Mechanism and Claims

Ginkgo biloba extract contains:

• Flavonoid glycosides
• Terpene lactones
• Other miscellaneous components

Proposed mechanisms include:

• Increasing cerebral blood flow
• Antioxidant properties
• Anti-inflammatory effects 3

Clinical Application

Despite its popularity, the evidence does not support using Ginkgo biloba for:

• Memory enhancement in healthy adults
• Prevention of cognitive decline in older adults
• Treatment of established cognitive impairment or dementia

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Assuming traditional use equals effectiveness: Despite centuries of traditional use, rigorous scientific studies have failed to confirm memory benefits

2. Relying on small, short-term studies: Earlier positive findings from small studies have not been replicated in larger, more rigorous trials

3. Ignoring potential interactions: Ginkgo may interact with medications including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and certain psychiatric medications 3

4. Self-medicating for cognitive symptoms: Cognitive decline should prompt medical evaluation for potentially treatable causes rather than self-treatment with supplements

Conclusion Based on Evidence

While some small studies have suggested modest benefits in specific populations 4, 5, the most comprehensive and rigorous evidence from large-scale trials shows no significant effect of Ginkgo biloba on memory or cognitive function 2. The National Institute on Aging and other major medical organizations recommend against routine use of supplements like Ginkgo biloba for cognitive enhancement due to lack of supporting evidence 6.

For patients concerned about cognitive health, evidence-based approaches include:

• Physical activity
• Blood pressure control
• Diabetes management
• Smoking cessation
• Treatment of vitamin deficiencies when present 6