Cheap Asian supplement known as the ‘brain herb’ may help delay dementia symptoms
A leaf of faith?
If you’re looking to boost brain health, a common supplement that’s sold on Amazon and at stores like Walgreens, Walmart, and GNC could help fight symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Ginkgo biloba extract — known as the “brain herb” — stems from dried leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree, which is native to East Asia and one of the world’s oldest living tree species.
Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, the popular supplement may alleviate dementia symptoms by enhancing cognitive function and memory.
“The extract from the ginkgo biloba tree may increase blood flow to the brain and improve brain functions like focus and memory in older individuals,” registered dietitian and nutritionist Krutika Nanavati recently told SheFinds.
Ginkgo biloba contains terpenoids, polyphenols, organic acids and flavonoids, which boast anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.
Ginkgo has been used to address poor circulation, asthma, bronchitis and bladder disorders.
EGb 761, a special formulation of ginkgo extract that contains 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene lactones, has shown promise in treating dementia.
Flavonoid glycosides are known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, while terpene lactones have been shown to prevent platelets from sticking together too much.
The thinking is that the terpenoids improve blood flow to the brain while the flavonoid glycosides reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is when there’s an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants, potentially paving the way for the development and progression of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s.
Research published earlier this year analyzed 15 clinical trials that assessed the effectiveness of ginkgo and EGb 761 on Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Eleven studies reported that some form of the extract improved cognition, neuropsychiatric symptoms and function in dementia patients, while the other four studies found no major difference between the extract and a placebo.
Still, the researchers noted that the studies had small sample sizes, varying doses, inconsistent findings and diagnostic challenges.
Recommended dosages for ginkgo depend on the condition being treated. A daily dose of 120 to 240 milligrams is common for dementia.
Ginkgo is not for everyone. It can cause an upset stomach, headache, dizziness, palpitations and allergic skin reactions.
The supplement — which is sold as liquid extracts, capsules, tablets and as dried leaves for tea — can also interact with other supplements or drugs.
Ginkgo is generally not advised for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with epilepsy, as it might cause seizures.
