Question:
Does ginko biloba help reduce declining memory if I am over age 50?
Answer:
Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 1
Amount Saved: $50 medical research
MedHead Message:
This is quite controversial, as Cochrane did a review in 2009 and concluded that ginko biloba likely doesn’t slow cognitive decline in aging or improve memory in dementia. However, several follow up studies since that time have shown that there indeed may be something there. Only use standardized ginko biloba, not the whole leaf herb. Take 120mg to 240mg daily for more than 6 weeks. Make sure to combine this with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
References:
- 1. Gruenwald, J., Eckert, A. and Kressig, R.W. (2020) The Effects of Standardized Ginkgo Biloba Extracts (GBE) on Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) in Middle-Aged Adults: A Review. Advances in Aging Research, 9, 45-65. https://doi.org/10.4236/aar.2020.93005
- 2. Mix JA, Crews WD Jr. An examination of the efficacy of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761 on the neuropsychologic functioning of cognitively intact older adults. J Altern Complement Med. 2000 Jun;6(3):219-29. doi: 10.1089/acm.2000.6.219. PMID: 10890330.
- 3. Barbalho SM, Direito R, Laurindo LF, Marton LT, Guiguer EL, Goulart RdA, Tofano RJ, Carvalho ACA, Flato UAP, Capelluppi Tofano VA, Detregiachi CRP, Bueno PCS, Girio RSJ, Araújo AC. Ginkgo biloba in the Aging Process: A Narrative Review. Antioxidants. 2022; 11(3):525. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11030525.