Ginkgo biloba is an herbal supplement used in traditional medicine as a memory enhancer and a treatment for various circulatory disorders. It is also sometimes used as a treatment for different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. While ginkgo is generally safe for consumption, use of the herb may produce a number of side effects and adverse drug interactions.
The Basics
Ginkgo biloba achieves its medicinal effects from plant-based antioxidants called flavonoids and a separate group of substances called terpenoids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Traditionally, medicines were prepared from both the seeds and leaves of the ginkgo tree, but modern usage largely involves a standardized, concentrated extract taken from dried, green ginkgo leaves. In addition to this standardized extract, you may receive ginkgo in tablets, capsules, teas or liquid extracts. In some cases, you may get ginkgo biloba seeds, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Side Effects
The NCCAM lists potential side effects of ginkgo biloba use that include nausea, headaches, dizziness, diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress. In some cases, you may also develop an allergic skin reaction to ginkgo, in addition to more serious forms of allergic response. If you consume uncooked ginkgo seeds, you may also experience seizures resulting from exposure to a substance called ginkgotoxin. If you eat large amounts of seeds for an extended period of time, ginkgotoxin buildup can be fatal.
Internal Bleeding
In some cases, use of ginkgo biloba may increase your risks for internal bleeding. However, the UMMC explains, research on the bleeding effects of ginkgo frequently involves patients who also use anticoagulant medications. For this reason, doctors are not sure whether ginkgo causes bleeding by itself or only causes bleeding in combination with these medications. If you already use anticoagulants, consult your doctor before using ginkgo in any form.
Medication Interactions
Use of ginkgo biloba may alter the absorption or effects of a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications, the UMMC notes. In addition to anticoagulants such as warfarin or aspirin, examples of these medications include antidepressants such as paroxetine or fluoxetine, high blood pressure medications such as nifedipine, thiazide diuretics, cyclosporine and medications that lower your blood sugar. If you take any of these substances, do not use ginkgo without your doctor's consent.
Supplement Interactions
Use of ginkgo may also alter the effects of certain dietary supplements or herbs, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine's Medline Plus. Examples include herbs that may increase your risks for bleeding, such as saw palmetto and garlic, as well as herbs used for erectile dysfunction such as yohimbe. In some cases, use of ginkgo may also alter the way your liver processes herbs or dietary supplements. Consult your doctor for more information on potential ginkgo interactions.
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