Side Effects of Ginkgo Leaf Extract

Ginkgo leaf extract is a popular herbal supplement used for a variety of conditions. Some clinical studies suggest that using this herbal supplement for some conditions, such as the leg ailment intermittent claudication may be beneficial. Most people may not experience any major side effects when taking ginkgo biloba leaf. Others, however, could suffer serious problems.

Benefits/Uses

This herbal supplement, extracted from the leaves of the ginkgo tree, is touted as having many health benefits. It may be beneficial for treating memory problems, depression, tinnitus, sexual dysfunction, vertigo, vision and circulatory problems. According to the National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Health, there is some clinical evidence that suggests that ginkgo biloba may be useful in treating conditions such as intermittent claudication, dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease and cerebral insufficiency. However, more clinical studies are necessary to validate the findings.

Common Side Effects

In most people, ginkgo biloba may cause no adverse effects. Side effects include headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal complaints, nausea and diarrhea. Other people may have allergic reactions to this supplement, with symptoms such as a rash, itching, swelling of the mouth and breathing problems. Medical attention may be necessary for severe allergic reactions.

Blood-Thinning Effect

Because this herbal supplement has blood-thinning properties, it may cause some potentially adverse side effects when used with blood thinners, aspirin or ibuprofen. Two serious side effects associated with ginkgo are brain hemorrhages and spontaneous hyphema. Although reports of spontaneous hyphema (bleeding from the anterior chamber of the eye) are rare, people who take anticoagulants such as heparin or warfarin should avoid using ginkgo extract.

Drug Interactions

Gingko biloba leaf extract can increase or decrease the effectiveness of certain medications used to treat conditions that include depression, hypertension, hypoglycemia, diabetes and seizures. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, taking antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) in combination with ginkgo may cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome, which produces symptoms that include tachycardia and elevated body temperature.
Ginkgo biloba extract may also affect the way in which liver enzymes metabolize other medications.
There are also some reported incidences of bleeding caused by using other herbal and dietary supplements such as garlic and saw palmetto along with ginkgo leaf extract.

Warning

Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use this herbal product. Patients who may be scheduled for surgery should not use this supplement for at least 36 hours prior to surgery. Likewise, you should not give ginkgo biloba leaf extract to children. Before taking any over-the-counter product, herbal supplements or a new medication, you should speak with your doctor.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center
• National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health
• Drugs.com

Resources

• Information on ginkgo biloba leaf extract and side effects
• More information on side effects.