Benefits of Taking Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a popular herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ginkgo biloba is the best-selling herb in the United States, where it is commonly sold in supplement form. Ginkgo biloba has earned widespread recognition for treating a variety of medical conditions. The NIH has found that ginkgo biloba may be beneficial for the following conditions, but only under a doctor's supervision.

Claudication

• Ginkgo biloba may have benefits for sufferers of claudication, a painful leg condition caused by clogged arteries. The herb receives an "A" rating from the NIH for this use, meaning that it is supported by strong scientific evidence.

Dementia

• Ginkgo biloba also receives an "A" rating for the treatment of dementia. It may reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's, but it is unclear if these benefits are comparable to prescription drugs.

Memory

• Several small studies have shown that ginkgo biloba may enhance memory. However, the jury is still out on this benefit since a large study by the National Institute of Aging found no memory improvement in participants.

PMS

• Ginkgo biloba may be useful in reducing the emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, like mood swings and irritability. The NIH cautions, however, that more research is needed in this area.

Sexual Problems

• Ginkgo biloba has traditionally been used to treat sexual problems and low libido. While the herb may provide some benefits in this area, more studies are needed.