Ginseng and Ginkgo Combination

Ginseng and ginkgo biloba are both commonly used to enhance cognitive function and regulate hormones. Similar to ginseng, ginkgo has a long-standing reputation for being an extremely beneficial medicinal herb, generally used to treat blood disorders and memory issues.

Since both ginseng and ginkgo biloba have been used for ages to help improving memory and alertness, several studies have been done to corroborate those alleged benefits and verify if the combined use the two herbs can heighten their natural properties.

How to Make a Ginkgo and Ginseng Combination

A ginkgo ginseng combination can be easily made at home in a variety of forms. One of the most popular methods of reaping the benefits of these herbs is through a warm infusion. Here are a few steps to help you brew a soothing ginkgo - ginseng tea.

1. Slice a fresh ginseng root with a potato peeler or a sharp knife, or cut a dried ginseng root.

2. Bring a pot of water to boiling point and turn off the heat.

3. Add one teaspoon of ginseng and one teaspoon of dried ginkgo leaves per cup of water.

4. Allow it to steep for 5 - 10 minutes, covered.

5. Strain the preparation and pour into cups. Add honey or sweetener as desired.

Ginkgo and Ginseng Supplements

The combination of ginkgo and ginseng can be used by either taking them individually or blended into a supplement. The benefits of both herbs can be absorbed through teas, liquid extracts, tinctures, powders. Tablets and capsules offer the additional advantage of a fixed dosage.

When consuming a ginkgo and ginseng combination, establishing the right dose is important to obtain good results and avoid any sort of side effects.

The average recommended ginseng dosage is 0.5 - 2.0 grams daily for ginseng root and 100 - 600 mg for ginseng capsules. For ginkgo, it is recommended to take 120 - 240 mg daily in separated doses.

If taking ginkgo and ginseng as a part of a long-term treatment, it is advised to take short breaks of roughly three weeks off for every two to three weeks of supplementation.

Combined Benefits of Ginseng and Ginkgo

Ginseng and ginkgo have both been taken for years as supplements to enhance mental performance, which has led to a number of studies testing the success of the combination of the herbs on the mind.

In 2000, Psychopharmacology published a double-blind study that tested the effects of 60 mg of ginkgo extract and 100 mg of Panax ginseng extract on healthy, middle-aged volunteers. The test found that the ginkgo - ginseng combination significantly increased the index of memory quality, in both working and long-term memory.

Ginseng and ginkgo also share the same benefit of helping with hormonal regulation. A trial published in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy (1998) found ginkgo to be 80% successful at alleviating sexual dysfunction in 63 volunteers (33 females and 30 males) who took 60 - 200 mg of ginkgo daily. 

Where to Buy Ginkgo and Ginseng

Ginkgo ginseng combinations are readily available for purchase in herbal shops, supermarkets, and online in a variety of brands and range of prices. Be sure you always consult your doctor before starting a treatment with a ginkgo ginseng combination, read the labels carefully, and follow the dosage as indicated.

Since ginseng and ginkgo individually have been shown to help improving cognitive performance and sexual dysfunction, they have become a popular combination, either paired in homemade recipes or bought as a supplement. Although further studies are needed, current research suggests that blending the two herbs may help increase their benefits.