Ginkgo biloba Leaf Extracts in Global Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment Guidelines. A Review

Age-related diseases like dementia are increasing globally, with limited treatments. Extracts of Ginkgo biloba are often used alongside synthetic drugs. The aim of this article was to identify clinical guidelines from countries around the world to assess recommendations on the use of Ginkgo biloba in dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and prevention. PubMed was systematically searched for guidelines on dementia and mild cognitive impairment on the 25th of April 2023. A search update was conducted on the 3rd of March 2026. Additional guidelines were identified via citation searching and organisations. Seventy-seven guideline documents were included: 47 on dementia (subtype not further defined), 25 on Alzheimer's disease, 19 on vascular dementia, 18 on mild cognitive impairment, and seven on prevention, with some guidelines including multiple mentions. The guidelines come from four continents and 28 countries, plus seven international guidelines. Regarding Ginkgo biloba, 52 give positive, 18 negative, and 26 neutral recommendations (double mentions possible); 27 do not mention it. Ginkgo biloba is referred to in guidelines worldwide, usually without reference to specific preparations. Preparation standardisation would be beneficial.