European studies have shown that ginkgo increases blood flow to the brain and extremities, helping to improve memory and mental sharpness. Ginkgo may be helpful for the early stages of Alzheimer's disease; circulation problems, especially intermittent claudication; vertigo and tinnitus, if of vascular origin.

Ginkgo flavone glycosides are a balanced group of bioflavonoids primarily responsible for ginkgo's ability to inhibit platelet aggregation (stickiness) and its antioxidant activity.

Terpene lactones (ginkgolides and bilobalide) improve circulation, inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF) and protect nerve cells. Too much PAF causes platelets to clump together, and is associated with nerve cell damage.