# Ginkgolic acid

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ginkgolic-acid
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-20
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Compound
**Also Known As:** 6-[8(Z),11(Z),14-pentadecatrienyl]salicylic acid, GA, Ginkgo acid, 15:1 ginkgolic acid, 2-hydroxy-6-[8(Z),11(Z),14-pentadecatrienyl]benzoic acid, C15:1 ginkgolic acid, Anacardic acid analog

## Overview

Ginkgolic acid is a phenolic alkylphenol compound found in Ginkgo biloba leaves and seeds that exerts [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects primarily by inhibiting microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 (mPGES-1) with an IC50 of 0.7 µM. It also suppresses 5-lipoxygenase activity and demonstrates anti-tyrosinase properties relevant to skin depigmentation research.

## Health Benefits

• Inhibits mPGES-1, a key [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mediator (IC50 = 0.7 µM) [4]. • Exhibits anti-tyrosinase activity in vitro (IC50 = 2.8 mg/mL) [2]. • Demonstrates [neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) properties, although specific mechanisms need further study [4]. • Shows inhibitory activity against 5-lipoxygenase, involved in pro-inflammatory lipid mediator synthesis [4]. • Possesses [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and antitumoral properties, with mechanisms not fully elucidated [4].

## Mechanism of Action

Ginkgolic acid inhibits mPGES-1 (microsomal [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) E2 synthase-1) at an IC50 of 0.7 µM, reducing downstream prostaglandin E2 synthesis and dampening the arachidonic acid inflammatory cascade. It also suppresses 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme that converts arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory leukotrienes such as LTB4. Additionally, its anti-tyrosinase activity (IC50 = 2.8 mg/mL) involves competitive inhibition of the copper-containing enzyme tyrosinase, blocking melanin biosynthesis from L-DOPA.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for ginkgolic acid is largely confined to in vitro cell-based and enzymatic assays; robust human clinical trials are absent. In vitro studies demonstrate potent mPGES-1 inhibition and 5-LOX suppression, suggesting a dual [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mechanism comparable to some NSAIDs at the enzyme level. [Neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s have been observed in cell models, though the precise molecular targets and pathways remain incompletely characterized. The overall evidence base is preliminary, and extrapolation of in vitro IC50 values to human therapeutic doses requires significant caution.

## Nutritional Profile

Ginkgolic acid is a bioactive alkylphenol compound (not a conventional nutrient), so it lacks a traditional macronutrient or micronutrient profile. Key chemical identity: it is a mixture of homologs differing in alkyl side-chain length (C13:0, C15:1, C17:1 being most prevalent), with molecular weights ranging approximately 346–390 g/mol. It is a lipophilic phenolic acid derivative structurally related to anacardic acids. Bioactive compound concentration in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts typically ranges from trace levels up to 0.04–0.06% in raw leaf material; pharmaceutical-grade standardized Ginkgo extracts are regulated to contain <5 ppm (0.0005%) ginkgolic acids due to toxicity concerns (European Pharmacopoeia limit). No meaningful fiber, protein, carbohydrate, or conventional vitamin/mineral content is associated with this isolated compound. Bioavailability: highly lipophilic (logP estimated ~5–7), suggesting good passive membrane permeability but potential for protein binding and accumulation; oral bioavailability data in humans is limited. It is not considered a nutrient but rather a secondary plant metabolite with pharmacological and toxicological relevance. Protein content: not applicable. Fiber: not applicable. Caloric value: negligible at biologically relevant concentrations.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges or standardized extract concentrations for ginkgolic acid in human use are available. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Ginkgolic acids are classified as potentially toxic allergens and are tightly regulated in standardized Ginkgo biloba extracts, with the European Pharmacopoeia limiting total ginkgolic acid content to below 5 ppm due to cytotoxic and sensitizing properties. High concentrations have demonstrated cytotoxicity in cell studies, including potential DNA damage and inhibition of SUMOylation, a critical protein-regulation process. Ginkgolic acid may potentiate the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin by modulating arachidonic acid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management), increasing bleeding risk. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid products with elevated ginkgolic acid content, and individuals with known nut or Ginkgo allergies face heightened sensitization risk.

## Scientific Research

There are no available human clinical trials or meta-analyses evaluating ginkgolic acid in clinical populations. The research focuses primarily on in vitro studies exploring biochemical mechanisms.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research does not provide details on the historical or traditional use of ginkgolic acid in any traditional medicine system.

## Synergistic Combinations

Curcumin, Resveratrol, Quercetin, Omega-3 fatty acids, Green tea extract

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is ginkgolic acid and where does it come from?

Ginkgolic acid is a long-chain alkylphenol compound naturally occurring in the leaves, seeds, and fruit pulp of Ginkgo biloba trees. It belongs to the phenolic acid category and exists in several structural variants distinguished by the length and saturation of their alkyl side chains, such as C13:0, C15:1, and C17:1 forms.

### Does ginkgolic acid reduce inflammation?

Yes, in vitro research shows ginkgolic acid inhibits two key inflammatory enzymes: mPGES-1 at an IC50 of 0.7 µM and 5-lipoxygenase, both of which are central to prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene synthesis respectively. However, these findings come exclusively from cell and enzyme assays, and no human clinical trials have confirmed these anti-inflammatory effects at physiologically achievable doses.

### Is ginkgolic acid safe to consume in supplements?

Ginkgolic acid is considered a toxic impurity in Ginkgo biloba supplements and is not intentionally consumed; reputable manufacturers limit its concentration to under 5 ppm per European Pharmacopoeia standards. At higher concentrations, it has shown cytotoxicity, allergenic potential, and inhibition of SUMOylation in cell studies, meaning contaminated or low-quality Ginkgo products pose a genuine safety concern.

### Can ginkgolic acid help with skin whitening or pigmentation?

Ginkgolic acid exhibits anti-tyrosinase activity with an IC50 of 2.8 mg/mL in vitro, meaning it inhibits the enzyme responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin pigment. While this suggests theoretical utility in topical skin-lightening formulations, no controlled human studies have validated its efficacy or safety for this cosmetic application, and its known sensitizing properties raise concerns for dermal use.

### How does ginkgolic acid differ from other active compounds in Ginkgo biloba?

Unlike the beneficial flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) and terpenoids (ginkgolides, bilobalide) in Ginkgo biloba that are standardized for therapeutic use, ginkgolic acid is treated as an unwanted contaminant due to its cytotoxic and allergenic profile. Standardized Ginkgo extracts such as EGb 761 are specifically processed to reduce ginkgolic acid below 5 ppm while preserving 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones.

### Does ginkgolic acid interact with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

Ginkgolic acid exhibits antiplatelet and fibrinolytic properties that may potentiate the effects of blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin, increasing bleeding risk. If you are taking anticoagulants or have bleeding disorders, consult your healthcare provider before supplementing with ginkgo products containing ginkgolic acid. Combined use may require dose adjustment or medical monitoring.

### What does current clinical research reveal about ginkgolic acid's neuroprotective effects in humans?

While in vitro studies demonstrate ginkgolic acid's neuroprotective potential through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, human clinical trials specifically isolating ginkgolic acid's effects remain limited. Most evidence comes from whole ginkgo biloba extract studies rather than ginkgolic acid in isolation, making it difficult to establish definitive efficacy for neurological conditions. Additional well-designed clinical studies are needed to confirm mechanisms and therapeutic benefits in humans.

### Who should avoid ginkgolic acid supplements, and are there specific contraindicated populations?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid ginkgolic acid due to insufficient safety data and potential uterotonic effects. Individuals with bleeding disorders, those scheduled for surgery, and people taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications should consult a healthcare provider before use. Children and individuals with ginkgo allergies should also avoid supplementation with ginkgolic acid-containing products.

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