Gingko Biloba Extract May Improve Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 22-week study involving 400 patients with dementia, treatment with a gingko biloba extract (240 mg/d EGb 761®) was found to be associated with improvements in SKT test battery score and neuropsychiatric symptoms. In addition, the mean caregiver distress score reduced significantly among caregivers of patients in the intervention group, as compared to a worsening found among caregivers of patients on the placebo. Significant differences between the active and placebo groups were found for apathy/indifference, anxiety, irritability/lability, depression/dysphoria, and sleep/nighttime behavior. These results suggest that supplementing with an extract of gingko biloba such as the one used in this study may benefit patients with dementia.
 
Reference:
"Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 on neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia: findings from a randomised controlled trial," Scripnikov A, Khomenko A, et al, Wien Med Wochenschr, 2007; 157(13-14): 295-300.