Does Ginkgo Biloba Improve Cognitive Function? Facts & Benefits

Ginkgo biloba has become increasingly popular among those experiencing mental declines, such as dementia, memory loss, or slower or reduced cognitive abilities. Studies have shown that ginkgo can be beneficial when administered in sufficient amounts.

Most research has concluded that consuming 240mg of ginkgo per day for approximately six months could stabilize or slow the progression of cognitive decline.

How does Ginkgo biloba Improve Memory?

Gingko, which is available as a supplement, stimulates blood flow to the brain. And blood circulation is crucial to supplying our brain with enough oxygen and glucose to function efficiently. 

Ginkgo biloba extracts, in particular, have the potential to support memory by enhancing blood circulation in the brain. This, in turn, protects the brain from neuronal damage and prevents possible memory failures. Furthermore, Gingko has antioxidant effects and specific benefits for medical problems related to memory loss, neuronal damage, or other cognitive functions.

Ginkgo biloba for brain and memory in the elderly

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition in which someone has minor problems with cognition—their mental abilities such as memory or thinking. However, the symptoms are not severe enough to affect their daily life activities and so are not defined as dementia.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is not a form of Alzheimer’s or dementia, but a person with MCI is at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s is a specific disease, but dementia is not. 

Dementia is a syndrome in which there is deterioration in memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is sometimes an umbrella term for many cognitive problems or disorders. Alzheimer’s is one type of dementia, but it’s not the only one. There are many different types and causes of dementia, such as Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia (LBD) and Huntington’s disease.

A few literature reviews of Ginkgo biloba extract for MCI and dementia concluded that supplementation of Ginkgo biloba extract at 240mg per day could stabilize or slow down the progress of cognitive decline after consumption for about six months. Less adverse events and fewer incidents of tinnitus, vertigo and headache were reported with ginkgo supplementation. For Parkinson’s disease, a few laboratory experiments have been conducted with ginkgo treatment, and the preliminary results were quite positive.

How much Ginkgo biloba should I take for memory?

The dosage of Ginkgo biloba extracts and supplements entirely depends on the individual and their unique health conditions. Generally, patients diagnosed with particular brain dysfunctions such as dementia or having different cognitive and memory-related problems are recommended to take 240mg of Ginkgo supplements daily.

In order to notice a significant improvement in your cognitive functioning, taking the recommended dose of ginkgo biloba for at least six months is important. Afterwards, the chances are that you’ll notice some differences in the way your memory operates. Therefore, after the initial six months, you can already start assessing the effectiveness of this supplement.

Still, it entirely depends on your unique condition. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor if you want to avoid side effects and make the most of ginkgo’s benefit.

Does Ginkgo biloba help with focus and concentration?

Most studies on ginkgo concentrate on the effects on memory loss, dementia, and effects brought on by inadequate blood flow. Concentration and memory are closely related cognitive functions that may influence one another. More specifically, improved focus and concentration usually lead to better long-term memory.

A review of research pointed out positive correlation was found between reaction speed and increased blood flow. A study at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center found that a reduction in cerebral blood flow of more than 20% in patients leads to a loss of ability to sustain attention.

Using ginkgo may improve mental capability, but this is not a guarantee.

Can Ginkgo biloba help with brain fog?

Brain fog is a mental health condition resulting from extreme fatigue that leads to problems in concentration, thinking, and finding the right words to express your thoughts. Most of the time, experiencing stress for longer than one can efficiently handle or having to deal with too many responsibilities at a time leads to brain fog. As a result, individuals who struggle with this mental condition find it hard to focus on their tasks and retrieve needed information from their memories. 

Taking Ginkgo biloba extracts is often considered one of the best solutions to overcome the stressful condition of brain fog and improve cognitive function. It’s because ginkgo has a calming effect on our mental health, which reduces the symptoms of anxiety and helps us concentrate.