Ginkgolide A

PhytochemicalTerpene lactoneBest with a meal

What is it

Ginkgolide A is one of four major ginkgolides (A, B, C, J) found in Ginkgo biloba leaf; it is part of the terpene lactone fraction in standardized ginkgo extracts.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Component of ginkgo extract

Limited Evidence

Standardization marker; not isolated for clinical trials.

How it works

Ginkgolide A has weaker PAF antagonist activity than ginkgolide B but contributes to the overall pharmacology of standardized ginkgo extracts. Lab studies suggest neuroprotective effects in oxygen-glucose deprivation models. Most clinical evidence is for the whole standardized extract rather than for isolated ginkgolide A.

Dosage

No RDA. As part of standardized ginkgo extracts (typically 3.1% ginkgolides A, B, C combined).

When and how to take it

WHEN: With meals. HOW: Take within a standardized ginkgo extract.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Within standardized ginkgo extract

Not sold as an isolated supplement.

Well absorbed.

Safety

Profile mirrors the whole extract: generally well tolerated, with bleeding risk the main concern.

Who should be cautious

Stop 1-2 weeks before surgery. Caution with anticoagulants and in pregnancy.

Interactions

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant interactions inherited from the whole extract.

Frequently asked questions

Is ginkgolide A important?⌄

It contributes to the standardized extract profile but is not used clinically in isolation.

References

Ginkgolide A on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Ginkgolide A (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.