Ginkgolic acid

PhytochemicalPhenolic acid

What is it

Ginkgolic acids are a group of alkylphenolic acids naturally present in Ginkgo biloba leaves and fruit. They are considered contaminants in ginkgo supplements rather than desired actives, and quality standards limit their content.

How it works

Ginkgolic acids are allergenic and cytotoxic at sufficient exposure. They are structurally similar to urushiol (the irritant in poison ivy) and can cause contact dermatitis, mucosal irritation, and allergic reactions. Pharmacopeial standards for ginkgo extracts (notably EGb 761) limit ginkgolic acids to under 5 parts per million to ensure safety. Most commercial ginkgo products are processed to remove these compounds. In research settings, ginkgolic acids have been studied as SUMO-protein modification inhibitors, but this work is preclinical and does not translate to supplement use.

Dosage

Ginkgolic acid intake should be minimized. Standardized ginkgo extracts limit content to less than 5 ppm. There is no therapeutic dose for ginkgolic acid itself.

When and how to take it

Not a desired supplement; minimize exposure. When taking ginkgo leaf extract, choose products explicitly tested to under 5 ppm ginkgolic acid.

Safety

Ginkgolic acids are allergens and contact irritants. Oral ingestion of high amounts (e.g., from raw ginkgo seeds) can cause GI distress, allergic reactions, and possible neurotoxicity. Choose ginkgo products with verified low ginkgolic acid content.

Who should be cautious

Avoid ginkgo products that do not specify low ginkgolic acid content. Avoid raw ginkgo seeds and unprocessed leaf material. People with cashew, mango, or poison ivy allergies may cross-react.

Interactions

Specific drug interactions for ginkgolic acid are not characterized beyond ginkgo extract interactions (anticoagulants, antiplatelets).

Food sources

Raw ginkgo seeds (avoid)

Amount
Variable
%DV
—

Cashew shell oil (not consumed)

Amount
Trace
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is ginkgolic acid a beneficial supplement?⌄

No. Ginkgolic acids are considered contaminants in ginkgo products and are limited in quality extracts due to allergenic and cytotoxic risks.

How do I avoid ginkgolic acid in supplements?⌄

Choose standardized ginkgo extracts (such as EGb 761) that specify less than 5 ppm ginkgolic acid content.

References

Ginkgolic acid on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ginkgolic acid (PubChem CID 5317600) — PubChem link

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

Research on Ginkgolic acid (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.