Ginkgo – Is it of Value for Memory Enhancement?

The lead article in this month’s issue of the *Journal of the American Medical
Association* (vol. 302, #24) is “Ginkgo biloba for Preventing Cognitive
Decline in Older Adults: A Randomized Trial.”

The primary outcome analysis from the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM)
study, the largest completed double-blind, placebo-controlled dementia prevention trial to date,1 found that G biloba, 120 mg twice daily, was not effective in reducing the incidence of Alzheimer dementia or dementia overall.

The authors noted however, that it is possible that G biloba may have had more subtle, therapeutic effects on the rate of cognitive change. Specifically, G biloba may have prevented or delayed age-related changes in individuals with normal cognition, or G biloba may have slowed the rate of decline in those characterized as having mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

These last comments are in line with another study reported in the October 1997 issue of the same Journal, which was also a double blind, placebo controlled study wherein they found that an extract of Ginkgo Biloba was in fact effective in helping to alleviate cognitive problems in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Although there was little to no improvement in the control group, who did not take Gingko, at least 40% of those in the Ginkgo group experienced a significant improvement in their thinking and functioning abilities, including memory, and AD (Alzheimer’s Disease) progress was at least retarded in another 20%. Moreover, no significant negative side effects were found from this treatment.

The primary way in which Ginkgo appears to help memory is by facilitating circulation or blood flow to the brain. So if memory problems are due to poor circulation Ginkgo may help prevent some further degeneration, at least in the extract form, but in pill form it may not do much to improve memory in those with normal circulation. (CAUTION: Because Ginkgo may have a tendency to thin the blood, if you are already on any type of blood thinner, or anticoagulant you should consult your doctor before taking Ginkgo.) For another decent review of the Ginkgo go to: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ginkgo-biloba/NS_patient-ginkgo