Dementia is characterized by loss of cognitive function. Symptoms may vary according to to the type of dementia you have. For example, Alzheimer's disease may cause disorientation, language problems and memory loss, while vascular dementia may also cause urinary incontinence and movement problems. Dementia cannot be cured, but several drug treatments may help to slow its progression and boost cognitive function. The herb ginkgo biloba is sometimes used as an alternative treatment for dementia, but evidence to show it works is weak. Get medical advice before using it to treat dementia.
Properties
Ginkgo contains a number of biologically active compounds, including bilobalide and ginkgolides that, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, increase blood flow to the brain. In addition to being used as an alternative remedy for cognitive disorders, it is also sometimes used to alleviate stress, asthma and bronchitis. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 40mg to 50mg of a standardized extract of ginkgo three times daily. However, check with your doctor that this dose is safe for you.
Effectiveness
The results of a study published in the December 2010 issue of the "Indian Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry" show that ginkgo was significantly superior to placebo in the treatment of patients with dementia. However, an analysis of data from 36 clinical trials published in January 2009 in the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" revealed that while ginkgo use is safe, many trials that have evaluated ginkgo as a dementia treatment were badly designed. As such, the article's authors conclude that evidence to show ginkgo has a predictable and clinically significant benefit for people with dementia or cognitive impairment is inconsistent and unreliable.
Side Effects
RxList says that ginkgo is likely safe for most people when used properly. However it may cause side effects, including dizziness, constipation and a forceful heartbeat. It could also increase your risk of bleeding and bruising because it may reduce the blood's ability to clot. Never consume raw ginkgo seeds, which contain a chemical that can cause serious side effects -- including breathing problems, seizures and loss of consciousness.
Considerations
Ginkgo may not be a suitable herbal treatment for you. For example, if you have a bleeding problem, suffer from seizures or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid this herb. Do not use this herb if you are trying to get pregnant or if you are due to undergo surgery in the next two weeks. It also interacts with other medicines that you may be taking, including anti-coagulants, the antidepressant fluoxetine and medicines that are changed by the liver, such as citalopram and omeprazole.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dementia
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ginkgo
- Indian Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry: Efficacy and Safety of a Once-Daily Formulation of Ginkgo Biloba Extract EGb 761 in Dementia with Neuropsychiatric Features: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: Ginkgo Biloba for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
- RxList: Ginkgo
