
Risks. If you have a bleeding disorder, or are planning surgery, talk to your doctor before using ginkgo. Don't take ginkgo biloba leaf extract if you have any medical conditions -- especially diabetes, epilepsy, or fertility problems -- unless your doctor recommends it. Do not eat untreated parts of the ginkgo plant. Uncooked ginkgo seeds can cause seizures and death.Interactions. If you take any medicines or supplements regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using ginkgo supplements. They could interact with blood thinners, aspirin, NSAID painkillers, anti-platelet drugs, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, diabetes medicines, drugs that affect the liver and supplements like garlic, saw palmetto, St. Johns wort, and yohimbe. Ginkgo might reduce the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT.)
Given the potential risks, ginkgo is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.