Evidence supporting the use of: Ginkgo biloba
For the health condition: Schizophrenia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ginkgo biloba is used as an adjunctive treatment in schizophrenia based on some scientific evidence, although the quality and magnitude of the evidence are limited. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have investigated the effects of Ginkgo biloba extract, particularly EGb 761, in patients with schizophrenia who are already taking antipsychotic medications. The rationale is that Ginkgo’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce some of the negative symptoms and cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia, which are not always well managed by standard antipsychotics.

A 2011 meta-analysis (Zhang et al., J Clin Psychiatry) found that adjunctive Ginkgo biloba extract resulted in modest improvements in total and negative symptom scores compared to placebo. The effect sizes, however, were small, and not all studies have found significant benefits. The possible mechanisms by which Ginkgo may help include modulation of neurotransmitter systems (such as dopamine and glutamate), reduction of oxidative stress, and improvement of cerebral blood flow. Ginkgo also appears to be well tolerated when combined with antipsychotic medications, with few additional side effects reported.

Despite these findings, mainstream treatment guidelines do not recommend Ginkgo biloba as a first-line or standalone therapy for schizophrenia. Its use remains adjunctive and experimental, and more large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to fully establish efficacy and safety. Therefore, while there is some scientific validation, the strength of evidence is currently limited (rated 2 out of 5).

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