Ginkgo biloba won't reduce Alzheimer's risk, study claims

Taking the natural supplement ginkgo biloba won't reduce a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study.

Researchers at the University of Toulouse in France studied 2854 people aged 70 years and older that had reported having a memory problem to their GP.

Some 1406 were given ginkgo biloba twice a day for five years, while the remaining subjects were given a placebo.

There was observed to be no significant difference in Alzheimer's prevalence in those taking ginkgo biloba, with four per cent developing the condition, compared to five per cent in the placebo group.

A spokesperson from the Alzheimer's Society commented: "For a while it was hoped that ginkgo biloba could be the wonder drug.

"However, in recent years evidence - including a previous study by Alzheimer's Society - has repeatedly shown that it does not have any benefits in preventing the disease or slowing down symptoms."

Find out more about Alzheimer's disease care at Barchester homes.