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Ginkgo Supplements

Ginkgo Biloba Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com

Learn how to find the best Ginkgo biloba supplements, amounts of flavonol glycosides and terpene lactones found in popular products and testing for contamination. Read our review to find out if Ginkgo helps for memory, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, vertigo, glaucoma and other conditions. Review information about dosage, safety, side effects and more. Find out which ones passed our tests and why.

Ginkgo Supplements Review

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CL Answer

Now that it was shown that Ginkgo biloba is not an effective memory enhancer, are there any other health enhancing benefits from taking it, and, if so, what dose should one take daily?

Find out what Ginkgo Biloba can and can't do. Find out the health benefits and correct daily dosage.

Gingko Biloba Leaves and Supplements

CL Answer

What is Brain Bright and can it really improve memory or cognition?

Learn more about BrainBright, including clinical studies on memory and cognition, safety, and cost.

Product Review

Sexual Enhancer Supplements Review (with Yohimbe, Horny Goat Weed, Arginine)

Choose the Best Sexual Enhancer Supplement. Only 30% of Selected Sexual Enhancement Supplements Pass Quality Tests.

News Release

March 07, 2018

Finding Real Ginkgo Isn't Easy, ConsumerLab's Tests Reveal

White Plains, New York, March 7, 2018 — Recent tests of popular Ginkgo biloba supplements sold in the U.S. found that only 4 of 10 were confirmed to contain their listed amounts of real ginkgo extract.

Product Review

L-Arginine Supplements Review

Choose the Best L-Arginine Supplement. Find Out Which L-Arginine Supplement Passed CL's Tests.

L-Arginine Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Supplements for multiple sclerosis (MS): Do any supplements reduce symptoms or relapse?

Find out if vitamins or supplements such as ginkgo, fish oil, biotin, vitamins A, C, E, D, and B12, or selenium reduce symptoms or relapse in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS 3

CL Answer

Does Longevinex resveratrol really help for age-related macular degeneration?

Longevinex resveratrol information including how it helps age-related macular degeneration & clinical evidence.

CL Answer

I have been having dizziness for the past few months and am wondering if it could be a side effect of supplements I take. Which supplements cause dizziness?

Find out which supplements that may cause dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance, including garlic, melatonin, saw palmetto, and red yeast rice.

Young Woman Helping Elderly Woman Remain Upright

Clinical Update

4/21/2013

Does Ginkgo Cause Cancer?

According to a new study from the government, animals given an extract of Ginkgo biloba for two years developed cancers of the thyroid and liver. Should you be concerned? See the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Ginkgo Biloba Supplements Review for more information, as well our assessment of ginkgo's usefulness, and our tests of ginkgo supplements

Clinical Update

9/09/2012

Ginkgo Fails Alzheimer's Trial

Over two thousand people with memory complaints were given Ginkgo biloba extract or placebo as part of a five-year study. The results, published this week, showed no difference between the groups in the percentage who eventually developed Alzheimer's disease or dementia. See how this compares to other studies of ginkgo in the updated Ginkgo Biloba Supplements Review, which includes our tests and reviews of ginkgo products. More >>

Clinical Update

8/17/2016

Ginkgo for Memory and Cognition?

A branded ginkgo biloba extract improved a measure of cognition in men and women with self-reported memory impairment -- but did not improve memory. Get the details, plus more about the evidence for ginkgo and our tests of products, in the Ginkgo Biloba Supplements Review >>

CL Answer

Is quercetin helpful for a specific condition? I see it as an ingredient in several different types of supplements.

Learn more about quercetin, including the benefits of quercetin and other evidence from clinical studies on prostatitis and memory.

CL Answer

Are there supplements, foods, or beverages that I should avoid when taking clopidogrel (Plavix)?

Learn about supplement interactions with clopidogrel (Plavix). Supplements that may interact with this medication include cannabidiol (CBD), grapefruit, St. John's wort, ginkgo and others.

CL Answer

Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Find out which supplements help improve memory, brain function and cognition, including fish oil, some B vitamins, cocoa, and curcumin. ConsumerLab's answer explains the evidence for supplements promoted to help with brain function and cognition.

Supplements for Memory -- doctor holding a model of a brain and fish oil capsule

CL Answer

Do any supplements or lifestyle changes reduce the symptoms of tinnitus? Is it true that some supplements can cause tinnitus?

Learn which supplements can ease tinnitus, including melatonin and pine bark extract. Understand which may actually cause tinnitus.

Word blocks spelling out “tinnitus”

CL Answer

Have any supplements been shown to increase women's libido?

Learn more about supplements that may increase women's libido, including DHEA and maca.

Couple 1400

CL Answer

Are supplements which claim increased absorption or improved bioavailability telling the truth? Is it worth paying more for these? Are there concerns?

Learn more about bioavailability enhancers, including emulsifiers and enzyme inhibitors.

Enhancers in Supplements

CL Answer

Is it dangerous to use certain herbals, vitamins, or other dietary supplements when breastfeeding?

Find out which supplements should be avoided when breastfeeding, including medicinal herbs, soy, and flaxseed.

Herbs and Supplements to Avoid When Breastfeeding

CL Answer

Which supplements help with Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon may be helped by some supplements. Learn more about fish oil, Gingko biloba, and ginseng.

Supplements for Raynaud's Phenomenon -- woman standing outside in snow, with cold, red hands

CL Answer

Which supplements reduce the risk of stroke? Which increase the risk of stroke?

Find out which supplements (may help reduce the risk of stroke/might increase the risk of stroke.)

Stroke Spelled on Wooden Blocks Against Blue Background

CL Answer

Do any supplements help reduce menstrual pain or symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Find out which supplements help reduce premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as mood swings, pain, bloating, irritability and food cravings.

Woman in PJs Holding Stomach from Abdominal Pain

CL Answer

Does Procera AVH really improve memory and mood?

Procera AVH information, including evidence from clinical studies on memory, cognition, mood, safety, and a lawsuit.

CL Answer

Do any supplements, like Nervive, help with nerve pain, like sciatica, diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia?

Find out which supplements for nerve pain, including fish oil and alpha-lipoic acid, are effective for sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, or postherpetic neuralgia.

CL Answer

Are there any supplements I should avoid when taking acetaminophen (Tylenol)?

Find out if there are any supplements that should be avoided when taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Interactions With Supplements -- box of Tylenol

Product Review

Vitamin K Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, and Vitamin D)

Should You Take Vitamin K? Beware of Products That Don't Deliver.

Clinical Update

11/16/2019

Concern With Ginkgo

The use of Ginkgo biloba has been associated with an electrolyte imbalance. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Ginkgo Supplements Review. Also see our Top Pick for Ginkgo.

Clinical Update

12/12/2017

Skin Rash from Ginkgo

Although not common, be aware that skin reactions have been reported from taking Ginkgo biloba. The most recent report involved a young man who experienced symptoms the same day he began taking a popular ginkgo supplement. See the details in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Ginkgo Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

9/30/2012

Does Ginkgo Improve Memory?

The evidence for Ginkgo biloba in preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease and other dementias has become fairly negative. But is there still hope for its use in improving memory in healthy individuals? The answer seems to be in, according to a new analysis of 10 placebo-controlled trials in healthy people. Get the answer in the update to the Ginkgo Supplements Review.

CL Answer

What supplements should I stop taking before surgery?

Info on which supplements to avoid before surgery due to increased risk of bleeding or interference with anesthesia.

Supplements to stop before surgery - operating room

CL Answer

What is Pycnogenol, does it work, and is it the same as other pine bark extracts?

Learn more about Pycnogenol, including evidence from clinical studies on blood clots, osteoarthritis, cognition, vision, tinnitus, and the skin and safety.

Pycnogenol Health Benefits -- woman with leg pain

Product Review

Calcium and Bone Health Supplements Review (Including Vitamins D & K, Magnesium and Boron)

See Which Bone Health Supplements Are Top Picks and Which Fail

Product Review

Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review (Including Spirulina and Chlorella)

Avoid Lead in Greens, Problems with Pills, and Don't Give Up Eating Whole Foods.

Greens Review Oct 2023

News Release

November 18, 2008

Adulteration Suspected with Some "Memory" Supplements -- Few Ginkgo and Huperzine Supplements Pass ConsumerLab.com Tests; Quality High for Acetyl-L-Carnitine

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — NOVEMBER 18, 2008 — Tests by ConsumerLab.com of Ginkgo biloba supplements show that few products meet quality standards.

CL Answer

What are "broad-spectrum micronutrient" supplements, and do they have greater health benefits than multivitamin/multimineral supplements?

Learn about "broad-spectrum micronutrients" and how they compare to multivitamin/multimineral supplements.

Multivitamins on a table with a multivitamin supplement nutrition label in front of the multivitamins

Product Review

Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review

Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies

Product Review

Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, and Vitamin K)

Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement with the Right Dose

CL Answer

Which supplements help with erectile dysfunction?

Supplements for erectile dysfunction. Find out which supplements can help with ED, including ginseng, L-arginine, and maca.

Man in Grey Tee Holding Water and White Supplement

News Release

May 24, 2006

Problems persist with ginseng supplements — ConsumerLab.com finds nearly half of products lack ingredient or contaminated

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — May 24, 2006 — ConsumerLab.com has released test results for dietary supplements made with ginseng, a popular herb promoted for vitality and the treatment or prevention of a range of medical conditions.

Product Review

PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone) Supplements Review

Learn What PQQ Does and Which PQQ Supplements are Best

CL Answer

Does Qualia Mind boost memory and mental function and is it worth cost?

Learn about the ingredients in Qualia Mind, whether or not we think the formula works and is safe, and if we think it's worth the cost.

qualia-mind

Recalls & Warnings

November 16, 2018

Two Popular Memory Supplements Missing Some or All of Key Ingredient

Two popular Ginkgo biloba supplements marketed to improve memory do not contain the Ginkgo biloba claimed on their labels, according to tests conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO).

News Release

January 03, 2006

Tests of memory enhancing supplements by ConsumerLab.com reveals lead in some ginkgo

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2006 — In its new test report on Memory Enhancement Supplements, ConsumerLab.com has revealed finding significant amounts of lead in certain products on the market.

Product Review

Choline and Lecithin Supplements Review (Including Phosphatidylcholine, CDP-Choline, and Alpha-GPC)

Product Review

NAD Booster Supplements Review (NAD+/NADH, Nicotinamide Riboside, and NMN)

How Important Is Boosting NAD+ Levels? Find Out and Learn How Booster Supplements Compare.

NAD Boosters (NAD+/NADH, Nicotinamide Ribose, and NMN)

Product Review

Quercetin & Rutin Supplements Review

Quality's a Concern With Quercetin and Rutin Supplements -- Only 17% of Claimed Amount In One

Recalls & Warnings

December 31, 2005

Ginkgo Supplements Recalled

On December 28, 2005, Jarrow Formulas issued a recall of a line of Ginkgo biloba supplements because raw material potency is below the label claim. Affected are "Ginkgo biloba 50:1" products sold in 40, 60, and 120 mg strengths and a combination product "Ginkgo Biloba 50:1 + Grape OPCs, 60 mg."

News Release

November 15, 2005

Testing by ConsumerLab.com identifies many problems with popular supplements for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control

Westchester, NY — November 15, 2005 — In a series of reports released today, ConsumerLab.com revealed test results for supplements used for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control. Among the twenty-three products that ConsumerLab.

News Release

August 31, 2005

ConsumerLab.com testing of alpha lipoic acid supplements from Japan finds no ingredient in one product; Most others meet claims — Japanese consumers urged to research product quality

WHITE PLAINS, NY — ConsumerLab.com reported this week that among nine brands of alpha lipoic acid supplements it recently purchased in Japan and tested, one contained none of the popular ingredient and another contained only 81%.

CL Answer

Does Prevagen really improve memory?

Learn more about Prevagen, including clinical studies on Prevagen's impact on memory & cognition, safety, pricing, and an FDA warning letter. ConsumerLab explores the efficacy of Prevagen.

Prevagen for Memory? -- bottle of Prevagen

News Release

August 16, 2005

ConsumerLab.com tests potassium supplements — Report now online for sixteen products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 16, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released a new report on the quality of potassium supplements. Potassium is used to treat or prevent potassium deficiency caused by diuretic drugs ("water pills"), prolonged vomiting, diarrhea or laxative abuse.

News Release

July 18, 2005

ConsumerLab.com tests menopause supplements — Alternatives to hormonal therapy — Report available for 38 products including soy and red clover isoflavones, black cohosh, and progesterone creams

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 18, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released a new report on the quality of supplements used to treat symptoms of menopause, notably hot flashes.

Recalls & Warnings

August 30, 2012

Supplement Company Warned For Medical Claims and Misbranding Of Omega-3, CoQ10, Noni Juice And More

On July 12, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Alfa Vitamins Laboratories, Inc.

News Release

July 12, 2005

ConsumerLab.com finds some supplements lower in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than claimed — Report available for 23 products made from oils of black currant, borage, evening primrose and flax

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 12, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released its latest report on the quality of supplements made from the seed oils of black currant, borage, evening primrose, and flax.

News Release

June 20, 2005

Quality problems widespread among ginseng products sold in Japan. — Nearly two-thirds of products fail ConsumerLab.com testing due to pesticide contamination and missing or substandard ingredients

WHITE PLAINS, NY — JUNE 20, 2005 — Among 14 brands of ginseng dietary supplements recently purchased in Japan and tested by ConsumerLab.com, only 5 products passed independent testing by ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

June 15, 2005

Two magnesium supplements fail testing due to lead contamination. Nineteen others pass. Report now available.

WHITE PLAINS, NY — JUNE 15, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released its latest report on the quality of magnesium supplements sold in the U.S. In addition to being an essential mineral, magnesium may help prevent migraine headaches, menstrual pain, PMS, and leg cramps during pregnancy.

News Release

May 10, 2005

ConsumerLab.com begins publishing test reports on Japanese vitamins and supplements — Review of CoQ10 products Now Available Online in Japanese at ConsumerLab.jp. More Reports Scheduled

— Review of CoQ10 Products Now Available Online in Japanese at ConsumerLab.jp. More Reports Scheduled — WHITE PLAINS, NY — MAY 10, 2005 — ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

November 02, 2012

Maker of Joint Health, Blood Sugar, Prostate, Ginkgo Supplements and More Warned For Drug Claims, Misbranding and Adulteration

On September 10, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Global Source Management & Consulting for making drug claims about the following dietary supplements: Scientific Joint Program capsules, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Healthy Blood Sugar Diabetic Support, Dr.

News Release

December 14, 2004

ConsumerLab.com expands testing to Japan — Testing Organization Expands to Help Japanese Consumers Determine Quality of Health and Nutrition Products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Tuesday, December 14, 2004 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it would begin testing products sold in Japan. Its first report is due out in early spring. In the U.S. and Canada, ConsumerLab.

News Release

August 28, 2003

Some problems persist with ginseng supplements but overall quality improves according to ConsumerLab.com — Test results published online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 28, 2003 — In contrast to its testing three years ago in which nearly 60% of Asian and American Ginseng supplements were found to have significant problems, testing of recently purchased products by ConsumerLab.

News Release

April 21, 2003

Low quality ingredient appears widespread among Ginkgo supplements according to ConsumerLab.com; points to challenge for FDA's proposed regulations — Review of memory enhancement supplements released today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — April 21, 2003 — In contrast to its findings three years ago, ConsumerLab.com announced today that only 22% of the Ginkgo biloba supplements it recently tested met its quality standards. In late 1999, 75% of the products it tested met these standards.

News Release

January 21, 2003

Acidophilus" and other probiotic supplements gain in popularity but live bacteria missing in many — ConsumerLab.com releases review online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 21, 2003 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

December 30, 2002

Top quality melatonin products identified by ConsumerLab.com — Hormone supplement used to treat sleep disturbances due to jet travel and other causes

WHITE PLAINS, NY — December 30, 2002 — In its latest Product Review, ConsumerLab.com found that 16 of 18 melatonin dietary supplements met their label claims and were free of lead contamination.

News Release

December 10, 2002

Lupus patients cautioned about hormone supplement — ConsumerLab.com releases DHEA testing results online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — December 10, 2002 — In its latest Product Review, ConsumerLab.com found that 3 of the 17 DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) supplement products it tested contained less than their claimed amounts of this hormone — one having less than one-fifth of what it claimed.

News Release

July 10, 2002

Pharmavite dietary supplements receive ConsumerLab.com approval — Vitamin E, SAM-e, St. John's Wort, Ginkgo and others merit approved quality products ranking

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 10, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

February 08, 2002

Athletic Banned Substances Screening and Certification Program announced by ConsumerLab.com — Tester of supplements to screen for substances banned in Olympics

WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

January 08, 2002

ConsumerLab.com finds most B vitamin supplements contain what they claim, but often exceed safe levels — Consumers cautioned to be aware of side effects with high dose products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that all but one of the twenty-one products analyzed in its B Vitamin Product Review contained the claimed amounts of B vitamins.

News Release

November 20, 2001

ConsumerLab.com finds fish oil supplements free of mercury, but 30% lacking in key ingredient — Test results of omega-3 fatty acid (EPA and DHA) products released today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — November 20, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA) from Fish/Marine Oils.

News Release

October 30, 2001

Sixty percent of nutrition bars fail to meet claims in ConsumerLab.com tests — "Low Carb" bars often loaded with carbohydrates; excess sodium and saturated fat also found

WHITE PLAINS, NY — October 30, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Nutrition Bar Product Review.

News Release

October 03, 2001

Most iron supplements pass ConsumerLab.com testing — Lead contamination and insufficient iron found in some

WHITE PLAINS, NY — October 3, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Iron Supplements. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in the U.S. and worldwide.

News Release

August 15, 2001

Problems and ambiguity among alternative estrogen products reported by ConsumerLab.com — Results of soy and red clover isoflavone product testing released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 15, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Phytoestrogen Product Review. The review focused on dietary supplements made from soy and red clover isoflavones.

News Release

July 09, 2001

Many herbal sleep products lack key claimed ingredient — Results of ConsumerLab.com's testing of valerian products released on web today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 9, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of valerian supplements — used primarily as sleep aids and minor tranquilizers.

Recalls & Warnings

September 10, 2012

Maker of Concussion Recovery Supplement Warned For Making Drug Claims

On August 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Trinity Sports Group, Inc. after a review of the company's websites found statements about Neuro Impact Concussion Response Formula constituted drug claims not permitted on supplements. 

Clinical Update

9/12/2023

Ginkgo for Tinnitus?

Do ginkgo supplements reduce symptoms of tinnitus? Find out what recent studies show in the What It Does section of our Ginkgo Supplements Review.

Also see: Do any supplements or lifestyle changes reduce the symptoms of tinnitus?

News Release

June 04, 2001

ConsumerLab.com reports test results of arthritis supplement — MSM; Quality found higher than for most supplements, but room for improvement remains

WHITE PLAINS, NY — June 4, 2001 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

May 07, 2001

Over forty percent of Echinacea products fail ConsumerLab.com review; Inadequate labeling and missing ingredients found common for popular herbal cold remedy

WHITE PLAINS, NY — May 7, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of echinacea supplements.

News Release

April 10, 2001

Quality of popular herbal anti-depressant found to vary; certain types of St. John's Wort supplements more likely to pass testing

White Plains, NY — April 11, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of St. John's wort supplements.

News Release

March 27, 2001

ConsumerLab.com expands testing of health products; success of dietary supplement evaluations leads company into broader nutrition field, beginning with popular nutrition bars

WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 27, 2001 — Having established its presence as the leading independent evaluator of the quality of dietary supplements sold in the U.S, ConsumerLab.com announced today the expansion of its work to include foods and food ingredients.

News Release

March 13, 2001

ConsumerLab.com review of vitamin E supplements finds some insufficiencies and need for clearer labeling; test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 13, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its Product Review of vitamin E products. Vitamin E is one of the most popular dietary supplements in the U.S.

News Release

February 14, 2001

Problems found with multivitamins and multiminerals by ConsumerLab.com

WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 14, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that only 14 of 27 products evaluated in its Multivitamin and Multimineral Product Review achieved full "CL Approved Quality" status.

News Release

January 29, 2001

Some supplements for arthritis may exceed newly released safe intake levels for manganese

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 29, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com issued an alert today to its online readers that that some glucosamine and chondroitin products (popularly used for osteoarthritis), exceed newly established upper intake levels for manganese.

News Release

November 21, 2000

ConsumerLab.com tests popular supplement for heart failure; CoQ10 test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — November 21, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 10th Product Review, focusing on dietary supplements containing coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

News Release

September 06, 2000

ConsumerLab.com finds new calcium products of higher quality than many traditional supplements; Test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY, September 6, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 9th Product Review, focusing on dietary supplements and products providing calcium. One of the most commonly purchased supplements in the U.S.

News Release

August 07, 2000

ConsumerLab.com finds that not all creatine supplements meet label claims; Popular sports supplement test results released online

WHITE PLAINS, NY, August 7, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 8th Product Review, focusing on creatine monohydrate dietary supplements.

News Release

July 11, 2000

Pesticide contamination found in many Ginseng supplements tested by ConsumerLab.com

WHITE PLAINS, NY, July 11, 2000 — Out of 22 brands of ginseng dietary supplements evaluated by ConsumerLab.com eight were found to contain high levels of specific pesticides, some of which also contained significant levels of lead.

Clinical Update

1/11/2022

Ginkgo and Cistanche for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Does supplementing with ginkgo and cistanche extracts help reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome? See what a recent study showed in our updated answer to the question: Which supplements help to improve energy and decrease fatigue?

Recalls & Warnings

June 03, 2019

Vinpocetine May Cause Miscarriage or Fetal Harm

Women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should not take Vinpocetine because it may cause miscarriage or harm fetal development, the FDA warned in a news release today.

News Release

April 24, 2000

ConsumerLab.com announces first test-based buyer's guide to dietary supplements; Manufacturers encouraged to have products tested for potential inclusion.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 24, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it is developing the first consumer guide to dietary supplements to be based on comprehensive independent laboratory testing of popular supplements sold in the U.S. The ConsumerLab.

News Release

January 31, 2000

Quality of prostate supplements get mixed review in ConsumerLab.com study; Saw palmetto product review published online today.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, January 31, 2000 — Out of 27 major brands of dietary supplements purporting to contain saw palmetto for treating symptoms of prostate enlargement, only 17 appeared to have ingredients similar to those found in published clinical studies.

News Release

January 24, 2000

Majority of dietary supplements sold in U.S. being tested by ConsumerLab.com in 2000; newest results due January 31 for Saw Palmetto.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, January 24, 2000 — As part of its ongoing independent evaluation of health, wellness, and nutrition products sold in the U.S., ConsumerLab.com announced that by year-end it is to have independently tested most of the popular brands of dietary supplements sold in the U.S.

News Release

December 08, 1999

ConsumerLab.com testing quality of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Saw Palmetto supplements; web site becoming popular reference for consumers

WHITE PLAINS, NY, December 8, 1999 — As part of its ongoing independent evaluation of health, wellness, and nutrition products sold in the U.S., ConsumerLab.com announced that it is now testing Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Saw Palmetto dietary supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2006

Another Ginkgo Supplement Recalled

On January 19, 2006, Olympian Labs informed ConsumerLab.com that it recently issued a recall of a line of Ginkgo biloba supplements because the products "did not meet our specifications that our raw material supplier was contracted to follow.

Recalls & Warnings

October 27, 2004

Some Supplements Can Damage Eyes At High Doses and with Topical Use

As reported by Reuters Health on October 21, 2004, an article in the current issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that some herbal remedies and nutritional supplements can damage the eyes.

Recalls & Warnings

January 17, 2017

Seller of Heart, Senior and Teen Supplements Warned For Drug Claims

On December 7, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Esteem Products Ltd following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about its products, Cardio Life, Total Man, Total Woman, Senior Total Man, Senior Total Woman , and Total Teen to be drug ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 13, 2016

Seller of Omega-3, Ginkgo, Vision Supplements & More Warned for Drug Claims

On July 22, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Viva Nutraceuticals (J & E International Corporation) following a review of the company's website and promotional literature, which found statement made about its products, Eyestonia, Ginkgo Biloba 60mg, Golden Omega-3 Max, ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 19, 2014

Seller of Sexual Enhancement Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On February 11, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Maximus Niterider International Group, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 07, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers Of Three More Sexual Enhancement Supplements Containing Undeclared Drugs

On May 7, 2013, the FDA issued a warning to consumers, urging them not to purchase or use three sexual enhancement products which were found to contain undeclared drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

July 05, 2013

Seller of Vision Supplement Warned For Drug Claims

On June 25, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nutrient Synergy, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about the dietary supplement Nepretin to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

May 21, 2014

Seller of Gingko and Milk Thistle Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On April 4, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Xtra Life Natural Systems, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 22, 2016

NOW Foods Recalls Ginkgo & Other Supplements

On March 18, 2016, NOW Foods issued a recall of the following dietary supplements due to errors on the labels: 

Recalls & Warnings

August 16, 2013

Ginkgo, Milk Thistle, Cleanse and Nopal Supplement Maker Warned For Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On July 23, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Natural Products Services, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2012

FDA Seizes Many Supplements from New York Company Due To Drug Claims

On October 23, 2012, U.S. Marshalls, acting on behalf of the FDA, seized dietary supplements and unapproved drugs from Confidence, Inc., a supplement manufacturer in Port Washington, N.Y. The products included dietary supplements Dr.

News Release

November 16, 1999

Only three quarters of Ginkgo Biloba supplements contain proper ingredients. ConsumerLab.com posts first of its dietary supplement product tests.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, November 16, 1999 — Consumers have a one out of four chance of buying a Ginkgo Biloba product that may not deliver the ingredients they are seeking. This is the finding of an independent analysis of products conducted by ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

September 16, 2016

Memory Enhancement Ingredient Vinpocetine Should Not Be Sold In Supplements, Says FDA

On September 7, 2016, the FDA announced its tentative conclusion that the synthetic compound vinpocetine, currently sold in some dietary supplements, should not be classified as a dietary supplement ingredient.

Recalls & Warnings

October 14, 2015

No Vinpocetine in Some Vinpocetine Supplements; Picamilon Labels Not Accurate

A recently published study of 23 supplements listing vinpocetine as an ingredient found six did not contain any vinpocetine. Among those that did contain vinpocetine, most did not list amounts on the label, but amounts found in suggested daily servings varied by almost 100-fold, from 0.

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2003

Mixing Herbal Supplements, Migraine Medications Can Be Dangerous

On June 19, 2003, ABC News reported than an extensive review of existing research has led University of Utah researchers to conclude several popular herbal supplements may cause adverse, even deadly, reactions when combined with certain migraine medications.

Recalls & Warnings

September 08, 2011

FDA Warns Several Supplement Manufacturers Not Following Good Manufacturing Practices

In recent weeks, the U.S. FDA has sent warning letters to several supplement manufacturers regarding deficiencies identified during audits of their facilities and not adequately corrected. Use the links below to access the Warning Letters on the FDA website.

Recalls & Warnings

February 03, 2015

Major Retailers Accused of Selling Adulterated Herbal Supplements

On February 3, 2015, the New York State Attorney General announced that his office sent letters to four major retailers, GNC, Target, Walmart, and Walgreens, for allegedly selling store brand herbal supplement products in New York that either could not be verified to contain the labeled substance, ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 06, 2014

Seller of Flaxseed, Ginkgo and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On April 18, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Iowa Select Herbs, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Flax Seed, Holy Basil, Papaya Leaf Extract, and Ginkgo Leaf Extract products, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held ...

Recalls & Warnings

December 21, 2012

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On December 19, 2012, P&J Trading issued a voluntary recall of SLIMDIA REVOLUTION after FDA testing found the dietary supplement contains undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

May 03, 2013

Recall: Two Sexual Enhancement Supplements Containing Undeclared Drugs

On May 1, 2013, American Lifestyle issued a voluntary recall of all lots of sexual enhancement supplements Vicerex and Black Ant because they were found to contain undeclared prescription drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

December 13, 2016

Case of Hemorrhagic Stroke Linked to Redline Energy Drink

A case of hemorrhagic stroke has been linked to the consumption of a single energy drink, according to a report published on October 11, 2016, in The American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

Recalls & Warnings

April 04, 2013

Three More Sexual Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs

On April 3, 2013, the FDA warned consumers that the sexual enhancement supplements AFFIRM XL, Love Rider and Ninja Mojo were found to contain undeclared erectile dysfunction drugs. Consumers are urged to stop using these supplements immediately.

Recalls & Warnings

June 13, 2013

Seller of Cardio, Immune, Greens Supplements and More Warned For Drug Claims

On May 29, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement company Nature's Answer, following a review a the company's website, www.naturesanswer.

Recalls & Warnings

February 21, 2013

FDA and FTC Warn: Supplements Cannot Prevent, Treat Or Cure Cold And Flu

On February 11, 2013, the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jointly issued warning letters to three dietary supplement companies regarding their potential illegal marketing of products to prevent, treat or cure flu virus.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2014

Seller of Diabetes, Prostate Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On October 7, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement distributor Windmill Health Products, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Nutri-Betic caplets, Vita-betic caplets, ProstrinRx tablets, Polyflavanol capsules, and Glucoflex Joint ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 25, 2022

Oregon’s Wild Harvest Warned by FDA for Manufacturing Violations

On July 8, 2022, the FDA issued a warning letter to Oregon’s Wild Harvest, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

April 27, 2023

Seller of Magtein, Veggie Caps, & More Warned for Drug Claims, Manufacturing Violations

On March 8, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to Spartan Enterprises Inc., dba Watershed Wellness Center, after a review of the company’s website found statements about its Dr. Bob’s Naturals Spirulina, Dr. Bob’s Naturals Magtein, Dr.

Recalls & Warnings

August 28, 2018

FDA Warns Seller of Goldenseal and Parasite Supplements

On August 15, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Healthy Healing dba Crystal Star, following a facility inspection which found certain statements product labels, including product labels for Women's Best Friend and Para Purge, to be drug claims. 

Recalls & Warnings

October 16, 2014

Seller of Black Cohosh, Ginkgo and More Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On April 2, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pure Herbs, Ltd.

Recalls & Warnings

September 16, 2015

Herbal Extracts Recalled

On September 15, 2015, Iowa Select Herbs, LLC issued a recall of numerous herbal exacts following a permanent injunction which required the company to stop selling supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

September 08, 2017

Probiotic for Infants Recalled Due to Potential Choking Hazard

On September 7, 2017, Garden of Life, LLC, issued a recall of Baby Organic Liquid, a liquid probiotic supplement for infants, because the product, as labeled, includes directions for use that may be misinterpreted and could pose a choking hazard due to the thickness of the liquid.

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2013

Weight Loss Capsules Recalled Due Allergen Risk

On December 13, 2013, Stone Independent Research, Inc. issued recall of one lot of Zanocap Scientific Weight Loss 500 mg capsules because they contain undeclared whey protein, which is derived from milk.

Recalls & Warnings

May 10, 2013

Seller Of Sexual Enhancement and Hormonal Balance Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On April 26, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pristine Bay, L.L.C.

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2015

Maker of Red Yeast Rice, St. John's Wort, Valerian and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On December 2, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nature's Health, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, including Ginkgo & Rhodiola, Blood Sugar Balance IV, Cinnamon Extract, Choles-Balance Red Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Milk Thistle Seed Extract, ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 26, 2014

Supplement Maker Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On August 14, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement manufacturer Big Easy Confections following a facility inspection which found the company's products to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing ...

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2014

Pinnacle Labs International Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On June 24, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pinnacle Labs International, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2014

Vita Springs Health Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On June 24, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Albert Max Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

November 14, 2012

Mushroom Supplement Manufacturer Warned For Drug Claims and Adulteration

On October 18, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Mushroom Wisdom, Inc. following a facility inspection and product label review which found the dietary supplements Amyloban 3399 From Lion's Mane, Grifron Maitake, and Super Shiitake to be promoted as drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

February 28, 2013

Maker of Liquid Omega-3 Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On February 20, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Capco Custom Packaging Inc.