Serious Side Effects Of Ginkgo Biloba: What You Need To Know

Ginkgo biloba is a widely used herbal supplement popular for its supposed benefits to memory, cognition, and circulation. However, while it’s generally regarded as safe for most individuals when taken as directed, Ginkgo biloba can also cause serious adverse effects—some of which may be life-threatening or require immediate medical attention. Understanding these risks is critical before adding Ginkgo biloba to your wellness routine.

What Is Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is an extract from the leaves of the Ginkgo tree, one of the oldest living tree species on Earth. This supplement is often marketed for improving cognitive performance, managing anxiety, and addressing circulatory issues. However, scientific support for its benefits is mixed, and the risks associated with its use demand careful consideration, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those on certain medications.

Common Side Effects Of Ginkgo Biloba

Most users generally tolerate Ginkgo biloba with only mild discomfort. The most frequently reported non-serious side effects include:

• Headache: Among the most common adverse reactions, possibly due to its effects on cerebral blood flow.
• Digestive upset: Symptoms can include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
• Dizziness: Reported especially by older adults or those sensitive to blood pressure changes.
• Allergic skin reactions: Manifest as rash, itching, or mild swelling.

While these side effects tend to be mild and temporary, users should monitor their symptoms and report persistent or worsening issues to a healthcare professional.

Rare But Serious Side Effects

Some adverse effects of Ginkgo biloba can be severe or even life-threatening, though they occur less frequently. These include:

• Increased Risk of Bleeding: Ginkgo can interfere with blood clotting, leading to easy bruising, nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, or in rare cases, brain hemorrhages. This is especially concerning for:
• Individuals on anticoagulants or blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin)
• People with bleeding disorders
• Patients scheduled for surgery (should stop Ginkgo at least 2 weeks prior)
• Pregnant individuals, due to risk of bleeding complications during labor
• Heart Palpitations and Arrhythmia: Reported as episodes of racing or irregular heartbeats.
• Seizures: Both the leaves and, more significantly, the seeds (especially raw or roasted Ginkgo nuts) can induce seizures even in those without a prior seizure history.
• Serious Allergic Reactions: Rarely, Ginkgo can cause hives, swelling of the lips/tongue/throat, and difficulty breathing, all requiring immediate emergency care.

Case Studies Illustrating Severe Side Effects

• Intracranial Bleeding: A healthy woman experienced a brain hemorrhage after taking high doses of Ginkgo biloba for four years, with medical imaging ruling out other causes. Discontinuation of Ginkgo led to partial recovery.
• Seizures after Ginkgo Nut Consumption: Another individual without epilepsy history developed seizures after consuming a large number of Ginkgo nuts; medical evaluation found Ginkgo as the likely cause.

Who Should Avoid Ginkgo Biloba?

Certain populations are particularly susceptible to Ginkgo biloba’s risks. Ginkgo should be avoided or used only under close medical supervision in:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Increased risk of bleeding and possible early labor. Safety during breastfeeding is unknown.
• People with bleeding disorders: Ginkgo can worsen bleeding.
• Those undergoing surgery: Increases the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. Stop at least 2 weeks prior.
• Epileptics or those with seizure disorders: Can trigger seizures, especially with seed ingestion.
• Children: Never allow children to consume Ginkgo seeds due to seizure and toxicity risk.
• Individuals allergic to poison ivy, mango rind, or cashew shell oil: Higher risk of cross-allergic reactions.
• People with diabetes: May interfere with blood sugar control; close monitoring is necessary.
• Patients with G6PD deficiency: Increased risk of severe anemia.

Possible Drug Interactions With Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba can interact dangerously with both prescription and over-the-counter medications:

• Blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs: Warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel — increased risk of bleeding/bruising.
• NSAIDs: Such as ibuprofen or naproxen; heightened bleeding risk when combined with Ginkgo.
• Medications lowering seizure threshold: Such as certain antidepressants and antipsychotics; risk of convulsions may be elevated.
• Diabetes medications: Ginkgo may inhibit blood sugar control, necessitating more frequent monitoring.

Risks Associated With Ginkgo Seeds And Nuts

Unlike the standardized leaf extracts used in supplements, Ginkgo nuts and seeds are notably dangerous:

• Fresh seeds are toxic and can be fatal, especially to children.
• Roasted seeds: Consuming more than 10 per day can cause seizures or death due to neurotoxic compounds.

Never ingest Ginkgo seeds unless they are processed to remove toxins and consumed in strictly regulated amounts under professional guidance.

How To Take Ginkgo Biloba Safely

If you choose to consume Ginkgo biloba supplements, follow these safety tips:

• Begin with the lowest dose recommended on the product label or by your healthcare provider.
• Don’t combine Ginkgo with blood thinners or other supplements/herbs affecting clotting.
• Do not use if pregnant, planning surgery, or if you have a bleeding risk or seizure history.
• Use only standardized Ginkgo leaf extracts from reputable sources to reduce contamination risk.
• Monitor for side effects, especially in the first weeks of use.
• Consult your healthcare provider about *all* medications and supplements you take to avoid interactions.

Special Populations: Additional Cautions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the most common side effects of Ginkgo biloba?

A: The most common adverse effects include headache, stomach upset, constipation, dizziness, and mild skin reactions.

Q: How can I lower my risk of bleeding with Ginkgo biloba?

A: Avoid combining with blood thinners, NSAIDs, and other supplements that affect clotting. Discontinue Ginkgo at least 2 weeks before surgery, and consult your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder.

Q: Are Ginkgo seeds safe to eat?

A: Fresh Ginkgo seeds are toxic and potentially fatal, especially for children. Even roasted seeds should be avoided except in extremely small quantities under professional supervision due to seizure risk.

Q: Can Ginkgo biloba cause allergic reactions?

A: Yes, individuals with plant allergies (including poison ivy, mango rind, and cashew shell) may experience cross-reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling.

Q: What should I do if I experience serious side effects?

A: If you encounter signs like easy bruising, severe dizziness, irregular heartbeats, seizures, or symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, stop taking Ginkgo immediately and seek medical help.

References

This article is synthesized from published research and authoritative medical resources, including data from the Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, and clinical case studies in peer-reviewed journals.

Author

Medha DebCommerce Editor

 

Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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