Gingko Biloba And Brain Health: Researches On An Ancient Remedy
Standardized extracts of Gingko biloba, produced from the leaves of the Gingko tree, have been promoted for more than 30 years as an effective way to improve memory, and avoid age-related cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Ginkgo extract has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for more than 500 years, according to the American Botanical Council. But new research questions the benefits of taking Gingko biloba extract.
A research study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the popular herbal supplement Gingko biloba was ineffective in preventing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The study, titled “Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory trial,” followed a group of more than 3,000 healthy participants aged 75 or older. They periodically completed dementia assessments over a period of about six years, to measure whether a daily dose of 240 mgs. of Gingko biloba extract could delay or prevent dementia. One of the authors of the study, Dr. Steven DeKosky, of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, stated that, based on findings in this study, “Gingko biloba cannot be recommended for the purpose of preventing dementia." Representatives of the supplement industry criticized the study, suggesting that the middle-aged, rather than the elderly, would be a more reliable group to analyze ginkgo’s effects on the aging brain. They pointed out that that dementia develops over many years and that the participants in this study were already at the highest risk for developing the disorder, due to advanced age.
Should You Continue Taking a Gingko Biloba Supplement?
The study authors cautioned that because Gingko biloba has an anti-coagulant effect, elderly patients with a history of a bleeding disordwe or cardiovascular disease should always consult with their physician before starting a gingko biloba regimen. If you are otherwise healthy and find that taking Gingko biloba helps you feel more focused and alert, then the latest study is further evidence that Gingko biloba is safe for healthy people to consume, even if seemingly ineffective as a preventative for Alzheimer’s disease.
The latest research study is by no means the final verdict on Gingko biloba. The scientific community hasn’t reached a consensus on the effectiveness of Gingko biloba in protecting cognitive functioning. A study sponsored by the government’s National Institute of Health demonstrated that regular, prolonged use of standardized ginkgo extract had a beneficial effect on the risk of developing dementia. On the other hand, a study which examined several smaller clinical trials, found them “inconsistent and unconvincing” proof that that ginkgo biloba had a significant benefit for people with dementia or cognitive impairment. There is another large 5-year study being conducted in France, the GuildAge study, and those results are expected to be published next year. In the meantime, here are current recommendations to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease:
Consume a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, whole grains, nuts and fatty fish such as salmon and tuna.
Exercise regularly and aerobically to increase blood circulation and oxygen supply to the heart and the brain.
Avoid and reduce excess stress.
Stay connected with other people because social isolation is a risk factor.
Learn new things and use your sense of humor to keep your mind sharp.
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