Extracts of Ginkgo biloba L. are one of the most commonly applied herbal
medicines. The active constituents are flavonol glycosides and terpene
trilactones in particular. The special extract EGb 761® is mentioned in
the German S3 clinical guideline “Demenzen” as treatment option
(“kann” recommendation). Some small- and large-scale clinical
studies for Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts are summarized in this
publication for the indications: Tardive dyskinesia, vitiligo,
anxiety/anxiety disorder, visual impairment, mountain sickness, sudden
hearing loss, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and
fatigue. The studies are of different quality and show variable results. More
research is warranted to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of Ginkgo
biloba extracts for those indications.