The most common herbal supplement for improving brain function probably does not provide any long-term benefits, at least not in older adults. That’s the suggestion of an eight-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of over 3,000 seniors.

Concentrated extract from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree, is a best-selling herbal supplement. Most commonly Ginkgo biloba is sold as “brain herb” that improves and protects cognitive abilities,  particularly in the elderly. 

According to a press release from the American Medical Association, this latest study finds no evidence to support these claims.

The study included American seniors age 72 to 96 with either normal brain function or “mild cognitive impairment.” Participants were given either twice daily doses of either Ginkgo biloba or a placebo.

Researchers report those taking the herbal supplement received no benefit over those taking the placebo. It provides no benefit in preventing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The results remained true even after researchers looked at specific types of brain function:

- Ginkgo biloba did not improve memory.
- Ginkgo biloba did not protect language skills.
- Ginkgo biloba did not improve the ability to pay attention.
- Ginkgo biloba did not improve visual/spatial abilities.

Researchers also found no difference when looking at age, sex, race or education. Nor did it make a difference if the participant started with normal or mildly-impaired function.

As the researchers put it:

“In sum, we [found] no evidence that Ginkgo biloba slows the rate of cognitive decline in older adults. These findings are consistent with previous smaller studies examining prevention of decline and facilitation of cognitive performance and with the 2009 Cochrane review of Ginkgo biloba for dementia and cognitive impairment.”

The study was conducted in six medical centers across the United States. It was the largest randomized, controlled study conducted to date. Several smaller studies have been conducted

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2551817/stu%20%20%20dy_herbal_remedy_ginkgo_biloba_wont.html?cat=58