What Is Used For

What Is Ginkgo Biloba Used For

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Ginkgo biloba is widely used as an herbal supplement and is associated with several claimed health benefits, though scientific evidence supporting these uses is often limited or inconclusive[1].

  • Cognitive enhancement: Often promoted to improve memory, cognitive function, and mental sharpness. Some studies report minor benefits for mild dementia or cognitive impairment, especially with long-term, high-dose use, but results are inconsistent and not universally accepted[1][6][7][8].
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: Contains compounds that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are thought to contribute to various chronic diseases[1][2]
  • Circulation and heart health: May improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood “stickiness,” which can theoretically benefit vascular health and leg pain due to arterial disease, although supporting studies are mixed[1][3][5][8].
  • Neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory conditions: Used in attempts to manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, dementia, psychiatric disorders, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and asthma, but evidence is limited and often contradictory[1][2][3][4][5].
  • Other potential uses: Studies have explored benefits for vision and eye health, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), altitude sickness, diabetes, and sexual dysfunction; however, high-quality evidence is lacking[1][2][4].

It is important to note that while ginkgo biloba is widely marketed for these uses, most major health organizations and recent systematic reviews emphasize that the existing research is inconsistent or inconclusive, and there are currently no uses approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration[4][7][8].

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