Ginkgo Leaf Extract Shows Promise in Improving Daily Function for Dementia Patients

A study finding that compounds extracted from ginkgo tree leaves—commonly seen on streets in autumn—may help alleviate symptoms in dementia patients is drawing attention.

A U.S. research team recently reported in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews that ginkgo leaf extract showed some positive effects on the overall condition of dementia patients. Cochrane is an independent research network comprising medical researchers and experts worldwide, recognized as an authority in evidence-based medicine.

The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to verify the effects of ginkgo leaf extract on patients with cognitive impairment and dementia. They reviewed a total of 82 studies involving approximately 10,000 participants, with evaluation focused on 72 of these studies. Assessment criteria included overall clinical status, cognitive function, activities of daily living, and adverse reactions.

The key question was: for whom was it effective? The analysis found no clear improvement in patients at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage. Even after six months of use, differences compared to placebo were likely to be negligible or minimal. No statistically significant differences were observed in patients with multiple sclerosis-related cognitive impairment either.

However, different patterns emerged in patients already diagnosed with dementia. Those who took ginkgo leaf extract for the same period showed trends of improvement in overall clinical status, cognitive ability, and daily living activities. The researchers suggested that symptom relief effects may appear during the dementia progression stage.

The researchers emphasized caution in interpreting the results. They noted that methodological limitations were identified in some studies and inconsistency across study results made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.

They added that studies on long-term use beyond six months are scarce, leaving the effects and side effects of continued use insufficiently verified.