Ginkgetin

PhytochemicalBiflavonoid

What is it

Ginkgetin is a biflavone (two linked apigenin units) found in Ginkgo biloba leaf at low concentrations.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Lab anti-inflammatory activity

Mixed Evidence

Demonstrated only in lab models; no isolated human clinical use.

How it works

Ginkgetin has shown anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity in laboratory models, including inhibition of phospholipase A2 and modulation of inflammatory cytokine release. It is part of the broader flavonoid fraction in ginkgo extracts but is not the principal active. Standardized clinical ginkgo extracts (EGb 761) intentionally limit biflavone content to below 5 ppm in some formulations because of concerns about CYP enzyme inhibition.

Dosage

No RDA. Ginkgetin is not sold as an isolated supplement.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Not applicable as an isolated compound. HOW: Take within standardized ginkgo extract.

1 commercial form

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Trace component of standardized ginkgo extract

Not sold separately.

Minimal in modern extracts.

Safety

Standardized ginkgo extracts contain very low ginkgetin amounts. Biflavones can inhibit some CYP enzymes in vitro.

Who should be cautious

Not used in isolated form; cautions are those of the parent ginkgo extract.

Interactions

Potential CYP inhibition; minimized by manufacturers in standardized extracts.

Frequently asked questions

Why is ginkgetin limited in ginkgo supplements?⌄

Because of in vitro concerns about CYP enzyme inhibition affecting drug metabolism.

References

Ginkgetin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ginkgetin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ginkgetin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.