The constituents of ginkgo leaves have been well studied chemically, pharmacologically, and clinically, but contradictory results have been increasingly published recently.
Effect of ginkgo
According to many experimental and clinical studies.
- Ginkgo increases memory performance and learning ability.
- Protects brain tissue
- Promotes the compensation of balance disorders
- Improves the flow properties of the blood
The effects on the brain are achieved through various mechanisms. For example, the ingredients of ginkgo leaves activate certain cells in the brain (astrocytes), which can then better fight off pathogens.
On the age-related decrease of receptors in the brain ginkgo has a reparative effect and the absorption of oxygen and sugar brain is promoted. By this promotion of the energy metabolism the nerve cells are protected against damage and the regeneration of already damaged brain cells is promoted. Furthermore, ginkgo extracts are also said to scavenge damaging cellular substances (free radicals), which also protects nerve cells from programmed cell death (apoptosis).
Studies contradict each other
The results of the various studies are sometimes quite contradictory. For example, recent studies refute the beneficial effects of ginkgo on mental performance and dementia. According to these studies, ginkgo has little more effect on dementia and tinnitus than a placebo.
Ginkgo: side effects and drug interactions
In very rare cases, the occurrence of headaches, mild gastrointestinal complaints and extremely rare hypersensitivity reactions of the skin may occur. Bleeding has been observed in isolated cases with prolonged use of ginkgo preparations, but its association with the intake of ginkgo has not been established.
Interactions with anticoagulant drugs are possible. Therefore, ginkgo leaves and drugs such as aspirin should not be taken simultaneously. The use of ginkgo preparations should also be discontinued before an existing operation.
