Ginkgo

Winners Explained

 

SC Quality Benchmark   In most clinical trials between 120 and 240mg of ginkgo extract has been used on a daily basis. These extracts typically contain approximately 24% or 28mg per 120mg extract of one of the main active ingredients called ginkgo flavone glycosides. For this reason 28mg of ginkgo flavone glycosides is the SC Quality Benchmark for ginkgo. To promote long term compliance, additional merit is awarded for one a day tablets/capsules providing this amount.

 

Ginkgo is a popular traditional herbal remedy which has proven benefits in helping to maintain healthy peripheral circulation, together with benefits in helping to prevent age related decline in memory ad overall mental functionality. This is why ginkgo is potentially a very useful supplement for all individuals as we pass 50 years of age.  

 

Quality

The overall quality of the ten products reviewed here was good with over half delivering the benchmark level of ginkgo flavone glycosides under the daily recommended dosage. Additionally, the products from Boots, Healthspan, Lichtwer and Nature’s Best delivered this level in a single daily tablet ( rather than 2-4 tablets required with the products from ASDA Sainsbury and Holland and Barrett) and hence are the category winners.  

 

 

Value

Value rating is based upon the cost per 28mg of ginkgo flavone glycosides and was found to vary widely with a 20 fold difference in cost, so the SC value rating is particularly relevant in this category. The range for the products reviewed here was between £0.03 and £0.60 per 28mg ginkgo flavone glycosides.