Ginkgo Basics

Ginkgo, or Ginkgo biloba in Latin, is a leaf extract from a Japanese tree usually used in dietary supplements to prevent memory loss and improve brain functioning. As a memory enhancer, gingko shows promise but further research is still needed (Source: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ginkgo/). Other names of ginkgo include maidenhair tree, Japanese silver apricot, baiguo, kew tree, and yinhsing.

Gingko Research

More recently, ginkgo has been included in supplements for weight loss such as Cytolean.  However, ginkgo as an aid for weight loss is not backed by research. Companies may claim that ginkgo will help you lose weight because it is an anxiolytic, (reduces anxiety), but this has not been supported by clinical research either:

Gingko may have some effect on stress and therefore theoretically help in cases where obesity is due to stress-related overeating. However, there is no available evidence to support this.” (Source: Eggar, et al. (1999). The effectiveness of popular, non-prescription weight loss supplements. The Medical Journal of Australia, 171:604-608.)

Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health have shown no uses of ginkgo for weight loss based on current scientific evidence. Although ginkgo in a diet pill probably won’t hurt you, it won’t make any difference either. (Source:http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-ginkgo.html).

Ginkgo Review Conclusion

Basically, if you can remember to take it, go ahead and use ginkgo as a memory supplement but don’t be fooled into thinking it will help you lose weight. If you are tempted to take it to reduce stress and therefore overeating, you are better off taking a walk.