Nutrition Bytes

The Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on memory enhancement in healthy subjects was examined. It was found that Ginkgo biloba is widely used in Western Europe for the treatment of peripheral vascular diseases such as intermittent claudication and cerebral insufficiency. The extract components and the research of Ginkgo biloba’s most studied physiological mechanisms of action were described. Research most closely implicating the use of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive enhancement was also examined, along with the adverse side effects associated with its use. The findings reveal a safe and suitable role of Ginkgo biloba in enhancing the cognitive performance of people who suffer from various mental dysfunction’s associated with aging, specifically those arising from decreased cerebral blood flow. Presently there is no evidence to support the role of Ginkgo biloba in enhancing cognitive function in young healthy subjects. Further studies in this domain are necessary to characterize such a role.