As women navigate midlife and the menopausal transition, maintaining cognitive vitality often becomes a focus. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein that plays a significant role in brain health, particularly in processes related to learning, memory, and the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself, known as neuroplasticity.
Emerging research suggests that certain botanicals, including Ginkgo biloba, may influence BDNF levels and related pathways. This article will explore the current understanding of how ginkgo biloba might support brain plasticity through its potential effects on BDNF, offering an evidence-based perspective for women seeking to understand brain health during midlife.
Understanding BDNF and Its Role in Brain Health
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a crucial protein found in the brain and spinal cord, recognized for its role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. It is often referred to as ‘Miracle-Gro for the brain’ due to its fundamental involvement in neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s capacity to form new synaptic connections and adapt throughout life. This adaptability is vital for learning, memory consolidation, and overall cognitive function.
Maintaining healthy BDNF levels is particularly relevant during midlife. As we age, natural declines in BDNF can occur, potentially impacting cognitive resilience. Supporting optimal BDNF activity is therefore a key area of interest for those looking to maintain cognitive vitality through the menopausal transition and beyond. Botanicals are being investigated for their potential to modulate neuroplasticity, with a focus on BDNF [1].
Ginkgo Biloba and BDNF Production: The Current Evidence
Research indicates that standardized extracts of Ginkgo biloba may have an influence on BDNF pathways. Studies have explored Ginkgo biloba’s potential as a putative target for BDNF-induced persistence of object recognition memory [2]. This suggests a potential connection between ginkgo’s actions and BDNF-mediated cognitive processes.
Further research highlights that Ginkgo biloba extract may improve post-ischemic stroke recovery by regulating CREB/BDNF-mediated synaptic plasticity [3]. CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in the regulation of genes involved in neuronal plasticity and survival, including BDNF. This indicates a potential mechanism through which Ginkgo biloba could support brain health.
Another study notes that the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® has demonstrated effects on neuroplasticity [4]. This broad finding supports the idea that ginkgo may contribute to the brain’s adaptive capabilities, which are often linked to BDNF activity.
Mechanisms of Action: How Ginkgo Might Influence BDNF
While the exact mechanisms are complex and still under investigation, Ginkgo biloba’s potential influence on BDNF is thought to involve several pathways. The extract contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to contribute to its effects. These compounds may interact with cellular signaling pathways that are upstream of BDNF production and release.
For instance, the regulation of CREB/BDNF-mediated synaptic plasticity observed in some studies points to a pathway where Ginkgo biloba might modulate gene expression leading to increased BDNF synthesis [3]. This could contribute to enhanced synaptic function and overall brain plasticity. Botanicals, including ginkgo, are being studied for their potential as modulators of neuroplasticity, with BDNF as a key focus [1].
Ginkgo Biloba in Midlife and Menopause: Brain Health Considerations
The menopausal transition can bring about various changes, including cognitive shifts often described as ‘brain fog.’ Supporting brain plasticity through mechanisms like BDNF modulation is an area of interest for women during this phase. Nootropic herbs and trees, including Ginkgo biloba, are being explored for their potential as cognitive enhancers [5].
While research on Ginkgo biloba’s direct impact on BDNF in midlife women specifically is ongoing, the general findings regarding its influence on BDNF pathways and neuroplasticity suggest a potential supportive role. The improvement of age-related neurocognitive disorders by Ginkgo biloba extract, with neuroprotection as a focus, further highlights its potential relevance for maintaining cognitive function as one ages [6]. It is important to note that the evidence strength for this specific topic is moderate, and more targeted research is always beneficial.
References
- Botanicals as Modulators of Neuroplasticity: Focus on BDNF. Neural plasticity, 2017
- BDNF as a Putative Target for Standardized Extract of Ginkgo biloba-Induced Persistence of Object Recognition Memory. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 2021
- Yindan Xinnaotong Soft Capsule improves post-ischemic stroke recovery by regulating CREB/BDNF-mediated synaptic plasticity and CREB/VEGFA-mediated angiogenesis. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 2025
- Effects of the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® on neuroplasticity. International psychogeriatrics, 2012
- Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers. Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 2023
- Improvement of age-related neurocognitive disorders by Ginkgo biloba extract: neuroprotection in focus. International journal of psychiatry in clinical practice, 2026
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