Skip to content
Back to Cognitive Decline & Brain Aging

ingestible · for cognitive decline & brain aging

Ginkgo Biloba (EGb 761)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Weinmann 2010 BMC Geriatr (PMID 20236541) - systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (2,372 patients with dementia) found statistically significant cognitive advantage over placebo (SMD = -0.58; 95% CI -1.14 to -0.01; p = 0.04). Effect size was modest. Note: the large GEM trial (3,000+ healthy older adults) found ginkgo did NOT reduce dementia incidence, so benefits appear limited to those with existing impairment.$15-$35/month for standardized EGb 761

How to use

Use only standardized EGb 761 extract at 240 mg/day (the dose used in most positive trials), divided as 120 mg twice daily with food. Look specifically for EGb 761 (Schwabe Pharmaceuticals formula) or products standardized to 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones.

How it works

Ginkgo's active constituents - flavonoid glycosides and terpenoids (ginkgolides, bilobalide) - act as free radical scavengers, inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF), improve cerebral blood flow, and may protect mitochondrial function in neurons. Ginkgolides have neuroprotective effects against ischemia in animal models.

Where to buy

Schwabe Pharma EGb 761 (branded as Ginkgoforce or Tebonin in Europe), Nature's Way Ginkgold (contains standardized EGb 761), Doctor's Best Ginkgo - available at pharmacies and supplement retailers. Many cheap generic products are poorly standardized; stick to named EGb 761 extract.

Typical cost: $15-$35/month for standardized EGb 761

Safety notes

IMPORTANT: Ginkgo biloba has significant anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity. It must not be combined with warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin, heparin, or other blood thinners without physician supervision - serious bleeding risk. Discontinue at least 2 weeks before any surgery or dental procedure. May lower seizure threshold - avoid in epilepsy. Can cause headache, dizziness, and GI upset. The large GEM prevention trial found no benefit for preventing dementia in healthy older adults. Use only under medical guidance if you have a bleeding disorder or history of stroke.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Weinmann 2010 - BMC Geriatr (PMID 20236541)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.