The following adverse reactions have been reported as associated with the use of Ginkgo biloba but are considered rare in their occurrence:

• Diarrhea
• Edema
• Erythema
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Restlessness
• Vomiting

The following adverse reactions have been reported as associated with the use of Ginkgo biloba when taken in conjunction with a blood thinner:

• Spontaneous hyphema
• Spontaneous bilateral subdural hematomas
• Retinal hemorrhage
• Clotting problems

Fruit:

The following adverse reactions have been reported as associated with contact of the Ginkgo biloba Tree itself and especially the fruit. ^66/67/68

• Contact Dermatitis

The following adverse reactions have been reported as associated with ingestion of the Ginkgo biloba fruit:

• Contact Dermatitis
• Tenesmus
• Perioral erythema
• Rectal burning

Seed:

Care should be taken if the seed is to be used. There have been reports of high toxicity from ingested raw seeds. Cooked seeds are considered safe. ⁶⁸

Leaf/leaf Extract:

Body as a Whole - The possibility of an allergic reaction to the herb should be kept in mind during therapy; Headaches

Cardiovascular System -

Digestive System - Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea

Metabolic and Nutritional - Clotting Problems

Nervous System - Restlessness, Irritability

Skin and Appendages - Edema, Erythema

The following adverse reactions have been reported as associated with the use of Ginkgo biloba when taken in conjunction with a blood thinner:

• Spontaneous Hyphema
• Spontaneous bilateral subdural hematomas
• Retinal hemorrhage

As with all Herbs and Drugs, the potential for interaction by a variety of mechanisms

(e.g. pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic drug inhibition or enhancement, etc.) is a possibility.

• According to recent studies on drug and herb interactions, Ginkgo biloba extracts should not be used while taking blood thinning medications such as heparin, warfarin or coumarin derivative. ^63/65
• Caution should also be taken with aspirin as anecdotes have been recorded of unfavorable interactions.

Copyright 1999 Rxlist - All rights reserved

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