Forget Ginkgo for Memory Enhancement

Source: Tufts University
September 18, 2002 (Reviewed: September 3, 2004)

Forgetful? Absentminded? Misplacing things? Could there be an easy solution to these frustrating occurrences? The makers of some dietary supplements claim that the herb ginkgo, which is available in over-the-counter formulas, can improve memory, attention, and other mental functions. Is this too good to be true? Maybe, according to a study in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

To evaluate ginkgo's effectiveness, 230 healthy volunteers ages 60 to 82 were randomly assigned to receive either ginkgo or a sugar pill for 6 weeks. The dosage of ginkgo was based on common manufacturers directions: 1 tablet (40 mg), 3 times each day with meals. Those taking the sugar pills consumed them in the same pattern.

Memory tests and games

At the start and end of the 6-week study, the volunteers underwent an evaluation that included tests of learning, memory, attention and concentration, and expressive language. Exercises included learning a 'shopping list' and then later recalling and recognizing the information, and repeating paragraphs immediately after listening to them. Volunteers also gave an assessment of their own memory. Additionally, at the 6-week evaluation each participant had a spouse or close friend evaluate any changes in their ability to remember.

No benefits seen with ginkgo

After 6 weeks there was no difference in mental functioning between those who took ginkgo and those who took sugar pills. There were no significant differences in test performances or in the companion assessments. Both groups performed better during the second evaluation, but that was most likely due to familiarity with the test procedures.

Use it or lose it

One could argue that ginkgo has memory enhancing powers that take longer than 6 weeks to surface. However, the manufacturer of the product used in this study promises positive results in 4 weeks. In fact, advertisements often refer to study findings that support ginkgo's ability to enhance memory. But, as is the case for most dietary supplements, there is still much to learn about how it might function and who (if anyone) it might help.

This study may be disappointing to people hoping to improve their memory with ginkgo supplements. But it does offer a hint about what does seem to work - practice. The saying 'use it or lose it' appears to be applicable to mental status, particularly as one gets older. Word or number games and puzzles, reading, or conversation may be the best methods for keeping the mind sharp.

Source

• Ginkgo for memory enhancement. A randomized controlled trial. PR. Solomon, F. Adams, A. Silver,  et al., JAMA, 2002, vol. 288, pp. 835--840

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