Herbs

Ginkgo

Also called: ginkgo biloba

Extract from the leaves of the ginkgo tree.

Why people take it
Memory, circulation, tinnitus.
What the evidence says
Large trials found it does not prevent dementia or memory loss.
How it is usually taken
Usually 120 to 240 mg of standardised extract a day.
Be careful
Raises bleeding risk with blood thinners and before surgery. Raw seeds are poisonous.
Medicines it can interact with
Adds to bleeding risk with warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel and NSAIDs; stop before surgery. May lower the seizure threshold.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicoriceBoswellia

Common questions

What is Ginkgo?

Extract from the leaves of the ginkgo tree.

Why do people take Ginkgo?

Memory, circulation, tinnitus.

Does Ginkgo work?

Large trials found it does not prevent dementia or memory loss.

How much Ginkgo do people take?

Usually 120 to 240 mg of standardised extract a day.

Is Ginkgo safe?

Raises bleeding risk with blood thinners and before surgery. Raw seeds are poisonous.

Does Ginkgo interact with medicines?

Adds to bleeding risk with warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel and NSAIDs; stop before surgery. May lower the seizure threshold.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.