Ginkgo Biloba
银杏 (Yín Xìng) · Ginkgo biloba
One of the oldest living tree species. Widely studied for improving blood circulation to the brain, supporting memory, and protecting against cognitive decline.
Bueno Para
Beneficios Principales
Improves blood circulation to the brain
Established mechanism — increases cerebral blood flow in clinical imaging studies
May slow cognitive decline in dementia
Large trials (GEM, GuidAge) show modest benefit for existing cognitive impairment
Reduces symptoms of peripheral artery disease
Meta-analysis shows improved walking distance in intermittent claudication
May help tinnitus and vertigo
Some positive trials though overall evidence is mixed
Cómo Tomar
Seguridad e Interacciones
Posibles Efectos Secundarios
- Headache
- Digestive upset
- Dizziness
- Allergic skin reactions (rare)
No Usar Si
- Bleeding disorders
- 2 weeks before surgery
- Seizure disorders (may lower threshold)
Interacciones con Medicamentos
- Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs) — increased bleeding risk
- Anticonvulsants — may reduce effectiveness
- SSRIs — rare reports of serotonin syndrome
- Diabetes medications — may affect blood sugar
Uso Tradicional
The ginkgo tree is a living fossil — 270 million years old. In TCM, the seed (Bai Guo) is used more than the leaf. Seeds astringe the lungs, stop wheezing, and reduce vaginal discharge. The leaf extract is primarily a modern Western application developed from the 1960s onward.
Investigación Moderna
Over 5,700 studies. The most studied herbal supplement for cognitive function. Active compounds: ginkgolides (PAF antagonists improving circulation) and bilobalide (neuroprotective). Evidence is strongest for existing cognitive impairment rather than prevention in healthy adults.
Ver estudios en PubMed →Where to Buy
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