Ginkgo Biloba significantly boosts memory in healthy adults
evidence
The Claim
Many believe that taking Ginkgo Biloba supplements can greatly enhance memory and cognitive function, even in healthy adults. This belief stems from the idea that Ginkgo improves blood circulation to the brain, thus enhancing brain function.
Origin
This myth has been perpetuated by supplement marketing campaigns and early studies that suggested cognitive benefits, leading to widespread consumer belief.
What Science Says
Research, including a large meta-analysis, has shown that Ginkgo Biloba does not have a significant effect on memory enhancement in healthy individuals. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated minimal to no improvement in cognitive function when compared to a placebo. The effect sizes reported in these studies are small and not clinically significant.
Verdict
False
Sources
- PMID:41678913 Comparative effects of Bacopa monnieri and Ginkgo biloba on cognitive functions: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
- PMID:23001963 Is Ginkgo biloba a cognitive enhancer in healthy individuals? A meta-analysis.
- PMID:35155509 The Effect of Polyphenols on Working and Episodic Memory in Non-pathological and Pathological Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.