Ginkgo Biloba vs Phosphatidylserine

Mechanism

Standardized extract (EGb 761) contains flavonoid glycosides (24%) and terpene lactones (6% — ginkgolides A/B/C and bilobalide) that act through multiple pathways: potent free radical scavenging and inhibition of membrane lipid peroxidation; antagonism of platelet-activating factor (PAF) via ginkgolides; enhancement of cerebral blood flow through nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation and reduced blood viscosity; and increased prefrontal dopamine and acetylcholine release via acylated flavonol glycosides. Bilobalide provides direct neuroprotection against excitotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Standard Dosing

120-240 mg/day of standardized extract (24% flavone glycosides, 6% terpene lactones) divided into 2-3 doses

Timing

With or without food. Split into 2-3 doses throughout the day. Effects may take 4-6 weeks to manifest.

Cycle Duration

Ongoing; no cycling required. Clinical trials typically run 22-26 weeks.

Side Effects

• Headache
• GI distress
• Dizziness
• Allergic skin reactions
• Increased bleeding risk

Contraindications

• Bleeding disorders
• Upcoming surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
• Seizure disorders (ginkgotoxin in poorly standardized extracts may lower seizure threshold)
• Pregnancy (may increase bleeding risk)

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Mechanism

Major phospholipid component of neuronal cell membranes (15-20% of total phospholipid pool) that maintains membrane fluidity and supports signal transduction. Serves as a cofactor for protein kinase C (PKC), Na+/K+-ATPase, and other membrane-bound enzymes critical for neurotransmitter release. Blunts HPA axis hyperactivation by modulating corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor interactions, attenuating cortisol release during physical and psychological stress. Facilitates acetylcholine, dopamine, and norepinephrine release, and enhances glucose metabolism in the brain.

Standard Dosing

100-300mg daily

Timing

With meals (fat-containing preferred for absorption). Can be taken morning or evening. Cortisol-blunting effects are relevant for evening/pre-bed dosing in stressed individuals.

Cycle Duration

Ongoing; no cycling required. Clinical benefits observed from 6-12 weeks.

Side Effects

• Mild GI upset at high doses
• Insomnia (if taken too late in some individuals)
• Rare: nausea
• GI distress (uncommon)
• Insomnia (at higher doses)
• Headache (rare)

Contraindications

• Soy allergy (if soy-derived — use sunflower-derived instead)
• Known soy allergy (soy-derived PS)
• Antiphospholipid syndrome (theoretical concern)

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