Ginkgo biloba and memory: myth or reality?

Abstract

Ginkgo biloba extracts are largely prescribed in many countries for the treatment of ageing and memory-related problems, and have long been used in China as a traditional medicine for various disorders of health. However, there is still controversy on the alleged efficacy of Ginkgo biloba for the treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. There is a paucity of clinical studies conducted with methodological adequacy. Preliminary clinical trials have rejected the benefits of Ginkgo biloba on moderate and severe dementia. However, more recent and current studies focus on its putative neuro-protective effects, being more beneficial in mild cognitive impairment and in early stages of Alzheimer's disease. The present review addresses the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba in memory disorders and dementia, in the light of the neurobiological bases of its protective effect.