Ginkgo Biloba for Vertigo? What the Research Actually Says

Vertigo, that spinning, off balance feeling, is one of the more unsettling symptoms people bring into clinic. It's also one where people often ask about ginkgo biloba, since it's one of the more studied herbs for this particular use. Here's what the evidence actually shows, and where it fits into a bigger picture.

What ginkgo may help with

Ginkgo biloba, particularly the standardised extract used in most research (known as EGb 761), has been studied in a number of clinical trials for vertigo and dizziness. The research is genuinely encouraging in certain cases, especially where vertigo is linked to reduced blood flow, such as vertebrobasilar insufficiency, cervical related vertigo, or dizziness without a clearly defined cause. Some studies have found ginkgo compares reasonably well to standard vertigo medications, with fewer side effects reported.

The proposed mechanisms are about supporting blood flow and circulation to the brain and inner ear, along with some antioxidant activity. This lines up with how ginkgo has traditionally been used to support healthy circulation.

Where it's less useful

This is important: the research is clear that ginkgo doesn't show the same benefit for vertigo caused by BPPV (the type triggered by head movement) or Meniere's disease. Vertigo has a long list of possible causes, some of which need proper medical assessment, so this isn't a "try ginkgo first and see" situation.

Why diagnosis comes first

If you're experiencing vertigo, particularly if it's sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, seeing your GP or a specialist for a proper diagnosis is the first step, always. Once the type and cause of your vertigo is understood, that's when a naturopath can look at whether ginkgo, alongside other circulation supporting or nervous system supporting approaches, might be a useful addition to your care plan.

Working together

Our naturopaths often work alongside GPs, ENT specialists and vestibular physiotherapists rather than in isolation, since vertigo tends to respond best to a team approach. If you want to talk through what might help with your dizziness or balance symptoms, one of our naturopaths would be glad to have that conversation with you, alongside whatever your specialist has already recommended.

For more on the research behind ginkgo and vertigo, the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA) is a good starting point for members of the public wanting evidence based information on herbal medicine.