Ginkgo biloba is one of the most popular herbal remedies used in both to the United States and in Europe. It has long been valued for its supposed ability to prevent cognitive decline, including memory problems. Yet there is little scientific evidence to support the use of ginkgo biloba for preserving cognitive function. In the largest study of gingko biloba to date, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and elsewhere conclude that it does not help prevent dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

A group of over 3,000 community-dwelling older adults (aged between 72 and 96 years) with either normal cognitive function or showing minimal cognitive decline, were assigned to take either gingko biloba or placebo. They took a twice-daily 120 milligram dose and were followed up for around six years. Ginkgo biloba had no effect on several measures of cognitive decline – that is, memory, language, planning and thinking and visuospatial ability. Nor did ginkgo biloba reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease, or any other form of dementia. The findings will no doubt come as a disappointment to those who are relying on ginkgo biloba to prevent cognitive decline and it remains to be seen whether they will lead to a dent in its popularity. But it would appear that researchers need to look elsewhere if they are to find a compound – herbal or otherwise – that can slow down cognitive decline and prevent dementia.

Source:

Snitz BE et al Ginkgo biloba for preventing cognitive decline in older adults: a randomized trial Journal of the American Medical Association December 23/30 2009;302:2663-2670