Ginkgo biloba: what it is and what the research says
26 October, 2026Short answer: Ginkgo biloba is a tree that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. A 2026 Cochrane review of 82 studies found that ginkgo probably has little or no effect for people with mild cognitive impairment, and that results for people with memory complaints are uncertain. It also found possible small to moderate benefits for people with dementia. Ginkgo is not suitable for everyone, particularly people who take blood thinners.
What ginkgo is
Ginkgo biloba is one of the world's oldest living tree species. Supplements are made from an extract of its leaves. The extract contains plant compounds called flavonoids and ginkgolides. In traditional use it has been taken to support circulation and memory.
What is in a capsule
Each NZ Pure Health Ginkgo Biloba capsule contains 200mg of ginkgo biloba extract at a 50:1 concentration, equal to 10,000mg of fresh ginkgo, plus the capsule materials. There are no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives.
What the research says
In 2026, Cochrane published an update of its review of ginkgo for cognitive impairment and dementia (Weiland and colleagues, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 2). It included 82 studies with 10,613 people. The authors' conclusions were:
- People with cognitive complaints: the evidence on whether ginkgo improves overall clinical status at six months is uncertain, and it may raise the risk of side effects at three months.
- People with mild cognitive impairment: ginkgo probably has little or no effect on overall status, thinking or daily living at six months.
- People with dementia: ginkgo may give small to moderate benefits at six months for overall status, thinking and daily living.
The review studied people who already had memory complaints or a diagnosis. It did not test whether ginkgo helps healthy adults, so we cannot say it will sharpen memory or focus in people without a problem. People with dementia or memory concerns should be under the care of a doctor, and a supplement should never replace that.
Who should not take ginkgo
Our label says not to use ginkgo if you:
- have a bleeding disorder, or take blood thinning or blood pressure medicine;
- are about to have major surgery;
- have epilepsy;
- are pregnant or breastfeeding.
People on prescription medicine and people with diabetes should check with their healthcare professional first.
How to take it
Take one or two capsules daily as a dietary supplement, or as professionally advised.
Common questions
Can I take ginkgo with aspirin or warfarin?
Not without medical advice. Our label says not to use it with blood thinning medicine.
How long until I notice anything?
The studies in the review measured effects at three to six months or longer. Many people notice nothing.
Should I stop ginkgo before an operation?
Tell your surgeon and anaesthetist. Our label says not to use it if you are about to have major surgery.
Sources
- Weiland LS, Ludeman E, Chi Y, Feinberg TM, Chen IH, Chen KH, Zhu Y, Wolverson E, Amri H. Ginkgo biloba for cognitive impairment and dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2026, Issue 2. Summary as published in the University of West London repository. repository.uwl.ac.uk
Written by Liz Lawton. Last updated 26 October 2026. This article is general information and is not medical advice.
