What it does
Biloba is a herbal supplement often used to support brain health and improve blood circulation.
Commonly used for: memory problems, dementia, anxiety, tinnitus
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:34:38 · updated 2026-07-20 11:08:50
About biloba
Biloba is a herbal supplement often used to support brain health and improve blood circulation.
What it treats
- memory problems
- dementia
- anxiety
- tinnitus
How it works
Biloba is believed to improve blood flow to the brain and enhance the function of neurotransmitters, which may help with cognitive functions.
Who it's for
Biloba may be suitable for adults looking for natural support for memory and cognitive health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About gingkgo
Ginkgo is a natural supplement made from the leaves of the ginkgo tree. It is often used to support brain health and improve blood circulation.
What it treats
- memory problems (cognitive decline)
- dementia
- anxiety
- poor circulation
How it works
Ginkgo is believed to work by increasing blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body, which may help improve cognitive function and circulation.
Who it's for
Ginkgo may be suitable for adults looking to support their brain health or those experiencing poor circulation.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About phytosome
Phytosome is a natural compound derived from plants, often used to help improve health and well-being.
What it treats
- general health support
- antioxidant support
How it works
Phytosome works by enhancing the absorption of plant extracts in the body, making them more effective.
Who it's for
Phytosome is suitable for adults looking for natural health supplements.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: biloba
Biloba, derived from the Ginkgo biloba tree, is commonly used as a dietary supplement, primarily for its potential cognitive and circulatory benefits. It contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are thought to contribute to its pharmacological effects, including antioxidant properties and neuroprotective effects. Biloba is often marketed for improving memory, attention, and reducing symptoms of anxiety, particularly in older adults.
Indications
- Cognitive impairment
- Dementia
- Memory enhancement
- Anxiety
- Peripheral vascular disease
Dosage
Children: Safety and efficacy in children have not been established. Use is not generally recommended without professional guidance.
Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines, as Ginkgo biloba is available in various forms including tablets, extracts, and teas. Typical doses range from 120 to 240 mg per day, divided into two or three doses.
Mechanism of action
The exact mechanism of action of Ginkgo biloba is not fully understood, but it is believed to enhance cerebral blood flow and improve circulation by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF) and promoting vasodilation through nitric oxide release. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of flavonoids and terpenoids may protect neurons from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
Pharmacodynamics
Ginkgo biloba exhibits several pharmacodynamic effects, including increased blood flow to the brain, improved oxygen utilization, and enhanced glucose metabolism. It may also modulate neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine, which could contribute to its effects on mood and cognitive function. The anti-inflammatory properties may further aid in neuroprotection.
Pharmacokinetics
Ginkgo biloba extracts are well-absorbed after oral administration. The bioavailability of its active constituents varies, and peak plasma concentrations occur within 1 to 4 hours post-ingestion. The elimination half-life of ginkgo flavonoids is approximately 4 to 5 hours, and metabolites are primarily excreted in urine. Factors such as age, health status, and concurrent medications can affect its pharmacokinetics.
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Allergic skin reactions
- Palpitations
Interactions
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
- Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Certain antidepressants (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders
- Monitor for potential interactions with other medications
- Discontinue use prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risk
Pregnancy
Not recommended due to insufficient safety data.
Breast-feeding
Lack of sufficient data, caution is advised.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Liquid extracts
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: gingkgo
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo, is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree. It is primarily used for its potential cognitive benefits, particularly in improving memory and concentration. Ginkgo is also believed to have antioxidant properties and may enhance blood circulation due to its effect on blood flow and vascular function.
Indications
- Cognitive decline
- Dementia
- Alzheimer's disease
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Tinnitus
- Anxiety
Dosage
Children: There is limited evidence for the use of ginkgo in children; refer to specific guidelines for pediatric use.
Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines, as dosages can vary based on formulation and indication.
Mechanism of action
Ginkgo biloba exerts its effects primarily through its flavonoid and terpenoid content, which are thought to have antioxidant properties. It may modulate neurotransmitter activity, enhance cerebral blood flow by vasodilation, and improve microcirculation. Additionally, it may inhibit platelet-activating factor, which plays a role in inflammation and thrombosis.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of ginkgo biloba include improved cognitive function, particularly in individuals with age-related cognitive decline or dementia. It may enhance memory, attention, and overall cognitive performance. Furthermore, its potential to improve peripheral blood circulation can contribute to its use in treating conditions like claudication and other vascular disorders.
Pharmacokinetics
Ginkgo biloba is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and its active components are distributed throughout the body. The metabolism of ginkgo occurs in the liver, primarily via cytochrome P450 enzymes. The elimination half-life of its components can vary, depending on the specific active constituents and their formulations. Excretion mainly occurs through urine.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to Ginkgo biloba or any of its components
- Active bleeding disorders
- Concurrent use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Allergic skin reactions
- Increased risk of bleeding
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin and aspirin
- May interact with anticonvulsants, increasing the risk of seizures
- May reduce the effectiveness of certain antidepressants and antipsychotics
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of bleeding disorders
- Discontinue use prior to surgical procedures due to increased bleeding risk
- Monitor for signs of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Pregnancy
Limited data available, generally not recommended due to potential effects on bleeding.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised, as effects in nursing infants are not well studied.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761)
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Liquid extracts
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: phytosome
Phytosome is a novel formulation that enhances the bioavailability of phytochemicals by integrating them with phospholipids, primarily through a process known as phytosomal technology. This formulation allows for better absorption and increased efficacy of plant-derived compounds, which can be beneficial in various therapeutic applications. Phytosomes are often used in dietary supplements and herbal medicines to improve the delivery and effectiveness of natural products.
Indications
- Nutritional support
- Antioxidant therapy
- Inflammatory conditions
- Cardiovascular health
- Liver support
- Immune modulation
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific product guidelines, as dosing can vary based on age, weight, and condition.
Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines, as dosing can vary depending on the formulation and intended use.
Mechanism of action
Phytosomes work by encapsulating phytochemicals within a lipid bilayer formed by phospholipids. This structure facilitates the transport of the encapsulated compounds across biological membranes, enhancing their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Once absorbed, these compounds can exert their pharmacological effects more effectively due to improved bioavailability.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of phytosomes revolves around the enhanced interaction of phytochemicals with biological targets. This improved absorption leads to increased plasma concentrations, allowing for more pronounced physiological effects. Phytosomes can modulate various pathways, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory responses, and modulation of cell signaling pathways, depending on the specific phytochemical involved.
Pharmacokinetics
Phytosomes exhibit improved pharmacokinetic properties compared to their non-phytosomal counterparts. The lipid-based structure allows for better solubility and stability in the gastrointestinal environment, leading to enhanced absorption. After administration, phytosomes are metabolized and distributed throughout the body, with their pharmacokinetics influenced by the specific phytochemical, its formulation, and the route of administration. Elimination pathways may vary, but typically involve hepatic metabolism and renal excretion.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Allergic reactions
- Headache
- Dizziness
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of allergy to phytosomal products
- Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Pregnancy
Limited data available, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Breast-feeding
Limited data available, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Powders
- Topical formulations
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
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