Bái Guǒ (白果) — Ginkgo biloba seed
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Benefits of Ginkgo biloba
- Modern research
- Cautions and contraindications
- Frequently asked questions
- Treatment at my clinic
1. Overview
Bái Guǒ (白果) — Ginkgo biloba — is the seed (kernel) of the ginkgo tree, one of the oldest living tree species on earth. In Chinese herbal medicine the seed (Bai Guo) is the part traditionally used, classed under Herbs that stabilise and bind. In modern Western herbalism it is the standardised extract of the leaf (Ginkgo biloba extract, EGb 761) that is most widely used — primarily for memory, cognition and circulation.
This page describes the classical Chinese use of the seed as well as the much-broader modern use of standardised leaf extract that is sold worldwide as a memory and circulation supplement.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Bái Guǒ |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 白果 |
| Latin name | Ginkgo biloba (seed) |
| English name | Ginkgo nut / Ginkgo biloba seed |
| Nature | neutral |
| Flavour | sweet, bitter, astringent (slightly toxic) |
| Channels entered | Lung, Kidney |
| Category | Herbs that stabilise and bind |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions (seed, classical TCM)
- Astringes the Lung and stops wheezing — for chronic cough and asthma with copious phlegm
- Stabilises the Lower jiao — reduces leukorrhoea and inhibits frequent urination and incontinence
- Eliminates dampness
Indications
- Wheezing, cough and asthma with thick or copious phlegm
- Excessive vaginal discharge from damp-heat or dampness
- Frequent urination, incontinence and chronic cloudy urine
4. Benefits of Ginkgo biloba (modern Western use)
The standardised extract of Ginkgo biloba leaf (most often EGb 761) is one of the most extensively studied herbal medicines in the world. The principal active constituents are flavone glycosides (typically standardised to 24%) and terpene lactones (ginkgolides and bilobalide, standardised to 6%).
Memory, cognition and dementia
Ginkgo biloba extract is best known for its potential effects on memory and cognitive function. Multiple meta-analyses have found that standardised ginkgo extract (typically 240 mg/day) produces small but statistically significant improvements in cognition, daily living activities and behavioural symptoms in people with mild-to-moderate dementia (Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia). The evidence for cognitive enhancement in healthy adults is more mixed and generally less impressive.
Circulation and peripheral vascular health
Ginkgo improves blood flow by promoting vasodilation, reducing platelet aggregation and improving the microcirculation. This is the basis for its use in intermittent claudication (leg pain on walking due to poor circulation), Raynaud’s phenomenon and vertigo of vascular origin. Improved cerebral blood flow is thought to underpin the cognitive effects.
Tinnitus and dizziness
Some clinical evidence supports the use of ginkgo for tinnitus and dizziness associated with vascular insufficiency. Outcomes are variable and the strongest evidence is in patients whose symptoms have a clear vascular component.
Eye health
Ginkgo extract has been studied as adjunctive treatment in glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration on the basis of its effects on retinal blood flow and antioxidant action. Evidence is preliminary and ginkgo should never replace conventional ophthalmic care.
Mood, anxiety and PMS
Some studies suggest a modest beneficial effect of ginkgo on anxiety and on certain symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), particularly breast tenderness and emotional symptoms. The evidence base is small but consistent enough that it is worth considering as part of a wider treatment plan for PMS.
Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
The flavonoid and terpene fractions of ginkgo extract are powerful antioxidants and have neuroprotective effects in laboratory models. This is one of the proposed mechanisms behind its cognitive effects and the basis for ongoing research into its role in neurological conditions.
Benefits of Ginkgo biloba for women
Specific benefits frequently asked about include support for premenstrual symptoms, mood and breast tenderness, support for cold extremities (Raynaud’s) which is more common in women, and possible support for sexual function in women experiencing antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction.
5. Modern research
Ginkgo biloba is one of the most-researched herbs in the world. Beyond cognitive trials, evidence supports vasodilatory and platelet-modulating effects, antioxidant effects through flavonoid scavenging of free radicals, anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of platelet activating factor (PAF) by ginkgolide B, neuroprotective effects in models of stroke and ischaemia, and possible adjunctive benefit in diabetic retinopathy and intermittent claudication. Most robust clinical trials have used the standardised extract EGb 761 at 120–240 mg/day for at least 6 weeks before benefit is seen.
6. Cautions and contraindications
Ginkgo affects platelet function and should be used cautiously — or avoided — with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications including warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel and the direct oral anticoagulants. Stop ginkgo at least 2 weeks before any planned surgery to reduce bleeding risk. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid the raw, unprocessed seed: ginkgo seeds contain ginkgotoxin (4′-O-methylpyridoxine), which can cause vitamin B6 deficiency and seizures if eaten in excess. Standardised leaf extracts contain only trace amounts of ginkgotoxin and are not associated with this risk. Common minor side effects of leaf extract include headache, dizziness, mild GI upset and skin reactions.
Important: Always consult a qualified practitioner before combining ginkgo with prescription medication. Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM) with over 25 years of clinical experience.
7. Frequently asked questions
What is Ginkgo biloba good for?
Standardised Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is most commonly used to support memory and cognitive function, improve peripheral circulation, reduce symptoms of mild-to-moderate dementia, and support tinnitus and dizziness of vascular origin. The Chinese herbal use of the seed (Bai Guo) is more focused on chronic cough, wheezing, leukorrhoea and frequent urination.
How long does it take for Ginkgo biloba to work?
Cognitive and circulatory benefits typically take at least 4–6 weeks of continuous use to become apparent, with maximum benefit usually seen between 12 and 24 weeks. It is not a short-term remedy and should be used as a course of treatment.
What is the recommended dose of Ginkgo biloba?
The most-researched dose is 120–240 mg/day of standardised leaf extract (typically EGb 761), divided into two or three doses. Higher doses do not produce more benefit and increase the risk of side effects.
What are the benefits of Ginkgo biloba for women?
For women, ginkgo may help with premenstrual symptoms (especially breast tenderness and mood), Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold extremities), tinnitus, and antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction. It does not directly affect oestrogen or progesterone and is not a hormone replacement.
Can I take Ginkgo biloba with blood-thinning medication?
No, not without medical supervision. Ginkgo affects platelet function and can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel and the direct oral anticoagulants. Always discuss with your prescribing doctor.
Are there any side effects of Ginkgo biloba?
Standardised leaf extract is generally well-tolerated. Possible side effects include mild headache, dizziness, GI upset and skin reactions. The main safety concern is increased bleeding risk in people on anticoagulant medication or undergoing surgery.
8. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Bai Guo as part of tailored Chinese herbal formulas where indicated, primarily for chronic cough patterns, leukorrhoea and urinary symptoms. For patients seeking modern Ginkgo biloba leaf extract for cognitive or circulatory support, I provide guidance on dose, quality and interactions as part of a broader integrated treatment plan.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available throughout the UK and internationally. Visit the prices page for consultation fees.
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