Ginkgolide C

PhytochemicalTerpene lactoneBest with a meal

What is it

Ginkgolide C is one of the major ginkgolides in Ginkgo biloba leaf, contributing to the terpene lactone fraction of standardized 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

Marker compound; not isolated clinically.

How it works

Ginkgolide C has weaker PAF antagonist activity than ginkgolide B. It is included in standardized extracts as part of the terpene lactone profile (typically 3.1% combined A, B, C ginkgolides) that defines product identity and consistency. Clinical evidence is for the whole extract, not isolated ginkgolide C.

Dosage

No RDA. As part of standardized ginkgo extracts.

When and how to take it

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

1 commercial form

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

Within standardized ginkgo extract

Consumer format.

Well absorbed.

Safety

Profile mirrors the whole ginkgo extract.

Who should be cautious

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

Interactions

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant interactions inherited from the whole extract.

Frequently asked questions

Is ginkgolide C important?⌄

It contributes to the standardized extract but is less potent than ginkgolide B.

References

Ginkgolide C on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Ginkgolide C (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.