Ginkgo biloba is an extract that comes from a native Chinese tree called the ginkgo tree. Many people use this extract, either in liquid or tablet form, as a way to improve memory or as a treatment for many other health conditions. Glaucoma is one such condition that some believe ginkgo biloba may help treat. Evaluating the possible benefits of ginkgo against traditional glaucoma medications may help you discuss your treatment options with your eye doctor.
Glaucoma
The front section of your eye contains aqueous, a watery fluid that helps nourish the tissue near the front of the eye. Aqueous continuously flows into this front chamber and must have a continuous outflow to maintain a balance. If the fluid does not drain properly, the amount of fluid in this front section will increase, resulting in increased eye pressure.
Over a period of years, high eye pressure can reduce the amount of blood flow to the back of the eye, gradually damaging the optic nerve. This condition, called glaucoma, will result in slow, but progressive vision loss. Doctors prescribe medicated eye drops to reduce eye pressure, but some people may elect to try herbal extracts, such as ginkgo biloba.
Usage
As of 2010, researchers have not determined that ginkgo biloba extract provides treatment or prevention from glaucoma, explains the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. You may choose to use ginkgo biloba, but talk with your eye doctor about possible benefits, as well as possible complications from using the extract. If you decide to proceed with using the extract, your eye doctor will help you determine a dosage appropriate for your eyes and overall health. On average, a dose of ginkgo biloba extract will range from 40 to 80 mg three times daily.
Side Effects
Using ginkgo biloba extract could result in certain side effects, including headache, gastric upset, dizziness and skin reactions. If you take a blood-thinning medication, such as Coumadin or warfarin, inform your eye doctor before using ginkgo biloba because ginkgo may intensify the blood-thinning effects of these medications.
Traditional Treatment
Your eye doctor may recommend that you use medicated eye drops to reduce your eye pressure, or he may recommend a combination of ginkgo biloba extract and medication if you wish to pursue an herbal method of treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce your eye pressure quickly to prevent further damage, and ginkgo extract may not reduce your eye pressure fast enough.
Considerations
Do not stop taking your glaucoma eye drops without talking with your eye doctor. If you wish to see if ginkgo biloba extract will reduce your eye pressure, your doctor will take a baseline eye pressure measurement while you are on your medications, but before you take ginkgo. After a period of time on your glaucoma medication and ginkgo biloba extract, your eye doctor will check your pressure again to compare and determine if ginkgo benefits your condition.
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