There is no safe upper limit for ginkgo biloba in the UK, but products tend to range in strength from 30mg to 500mg.

 A usual daily dose might be 240mg for adults and, as a general guide, should be taken for a minimum of eight weeks to see any effect.

 Make sure you read any instructions on the packaging or patient leaflet before taking. It is not advisable for pregnant or breast-feeding women to take ginkgo, as safety has not yet been established in these groups.

 Children under the age of 12 should not take ginkgo biloba, unless under medical supervision.

 Ginkgo can interact with certain drugs including:

• Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications

 • Blood thinning medication, such as warfarin or aspirin – ginkgo can enhance their effects

 • Anticonvulsants – there is a risk gingko may trigger further seizures

 • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

 • Anti-virals

 • Diabetes drug

•Blood pressure medications If you are taking medication for any reason, talk to your GP before taking ginkgo. 

The herb can limit a protein produced by the intestines, which may affect drug absorption and raise levels in the blood.20

Some people experience mild side-effects, such as

 • Nausea 

• Diarrhoea

 • Dizziness

 • Headaches

 • Stomach ache

 • Restlessness

 • Vomiting

• You’re older 

• You have a condition that causes bleeding 

• You have seizures or epilepsy 

• You’re pregnant

 • You have diabetes