Ginkgolide B

PhytochemicalTerpene lactoneBest with a meal

What is it

Ginkgolide B is the most potent of the ginkgolides found in Ginkgo biloba; it is a selective platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonist studied pharmacologically and as a marker compound in standardized extracts.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Cerebral microcirculation

Good Evidence

PAF antagonism contributes to ginkgo's vascular and cerebral effects demonstrated in whole-extract trials.

How it works

Ginkgolide B blocks PAF binding to its receptor, inhibiting platelet aggregation, leukocyte activation, and vascular permeability. This is the dominant explanation for ginkgo's antiplatelet effects and contributes to its cerebrovascular activity. Dihydroginkgolide B (BN52021) was developed as a pharmaceutical PAF antagonist. In consumer supplements, ginkgolide B is delivered within whole standardized ginkgo extracts.

Dosage

No RDA. Standardized ginkgo extracts contain ginkgolide B as part of 3.1% combined ginkgolides A, B, C.

When and how to take it

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

1 commercial form

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Within standardized ginkgo extract

Consumer format.

Well absorbed.

Safety

Profile mirrors the whole extract: bleeding risk is the key concern.

Who should be cautious

Stop ginkgo 1-2 weeks before surgery. Avoid with anticoagulants and antiplatelets.

Interactions

Significant antiplatelet interactions; cautions inherited from the whole ginkgo extract.

Frequently asked questions

What does ginkgolide B do?⌄

It is the strongest PAF antagonist in ginkgo, responsible for much of its platelet-related activity.

References

Ginkgolide B on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Ginkgolide B (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.