Ginkgo biloba has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbal practices, for promoting cardiovascular health and improving circulation. Its application for arteriosclerosis—a condition characterized by thickening and hardening of the arterial walls—is primarily based on the belief that ginkgo can enhance blood flow and provide antioxidant protection to blood vessels. Traditional uses often cite its benefits in treating symptoms related to poor circulation, such as memory problems and intermittent claudication (leg pain caused by reduced blood flow).

Scientifically, there is limited and mostly indirect evidence supporting ginkgo’s effectiveness in treating or preventing arteriosclerosis specifically. Some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may modestly improve peripheral circulation and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which in theory could benefit vascular health. However, high-quality clinical trials directly demonstrating a reduction in arterial plaque or significant changes in arteriosclerosis progression in humans are lacking. Most research focuses on ginkgo’s effects on cognitive function or peripheral artery disease symptoms rather than arteriosclerosis itself.

In summary, the use of ginkgo biloba for arteriosclerosis is primarily rooted in traditional practice with only weak scientific justification. Its role is mostly supportive or adjunctive rather than a mainstay therapy, and more robust clinical evidence is needed to validate its efficacy for this specific condition.