If you’re struggling with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) or debilitating tiredness that just won’t go away, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining things. Millions of people suffer from persistent fatigue that conventional medicine often fails to resolve.
Fatigue and stress can make everyday tasks like working at a computer feel overwhelming, as seen in this image, which represents the experience of many with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
At the Hedberg Institute, I’m always researching botanical compounds that support microcirculation, mitochondrial health, and immune regulation—all vital in restoring energy. That’s why I formulated VascuSelect, a synergistic supplement that contains three powerful plant extracts: Ginkgo biloba, grape seed extract, and mango whole fruit powder.
Let’s dive into why Ginkgo biloba, in particular, stands out for those dealing with ME/CFS and how it works alongside other ingredients in VascuSelect to support your energy and vitality.
An Important Study: Ginkgo Biloba for ME/CFS
A recent paper published in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2022) titled “A Botanical Product Containing Cistanche and Ginkgo Extracts Potentially Improves Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms in Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Study” sheds important light on Ginkgo’s role in combating chronic fatigue.
In this gold-standard clinical trial, 101 adults with ME/CFS received a botanical supplement combining Ginkgo biloba extract (120 mg/day) and Cistanche tubulosa extract (300 mg/day) or a placebo for 60 days. The results were impressive:
Significant reductions in fatigue severity
Improved physical performance and VO₂ max
Enhanced antioxidant status and reduced oxidative stress markers
Improved sleep quality and concentration
Enhanced quality of life (QOL) and sexual life (SLQ) scores
Decreased blood levels of lactic acid and ammonia (both fatigue biomarkers)
What’s particularly exciting is that Ginkgo biloba played a central role in this formulation. The authors noted that Ginkgo’s flavonoids and terpenoids contribute to neuroprotection, vasodilation, and mitochondrial support, all of which are key areas of dysfunction in ME/CFS patients.
This study confirms that Ginkgo biloba, known for enhancing blood flow and antioxidant activity, can play a central role in reducing the burdens of ME/CFS.
How Ginkgo Biloba Helps Fight Fatigue
Ginkgo biloba (standardized to 24% flavonol glycosides and 6% terpenes) is one of the most studied botanical extracts for circulatory and cognitive health. But its applications go far beyond brain support—especially for those with energy-depleting illnesses like ME/CFS.
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest and most studied medicinal plants. It’s been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, but modern science is now validating its applications for conditions like ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, and Long COVID.
1. Improves Microcirculation
Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow, especially in the small vessels of the brain and extremities. This is critical in ME/CFS, where impaired oxygen delivery to tissues can worsen fatigue.
2. Supports Mitochondrial Function
Many people with ME/CFS experience dysfunctional mitochondria—the energy-producing engines of cells. Ginkgo has been shown to protect mitochondrial membranes and improve ATP production, helping the body generate more usable energy.
3. Reduces Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress is a hallmark of ME/CFS and contributes to inflammation, brain fog, and fatigue. Ginkgo’s rich flavonoid profile helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. In the study mentioned above, participants taking Ginkgo and Cistanche showed significant increases in antioxidant enzymes like SOD and CAT.
4. Enhances Neurotransmitter Function
Ginkgo biloba modulates neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine—chemicals that regulate mood,