Ginkgo and aspirin: What you need to know about the interaction

When you take Ginkgo and aspirin, a combination of a popular herbal supplement and a common over-the-counter pain reliever that both thin the blood. Also known as Ginkgo biloba and acetylsalicylic acid, this mix is more common than you think—many people use Ginkgo for memory or circulation and reach for aspirin for headaches or heart protection. But together, they can increase bleeding risk in ways most don’t expect.

Think of Ginkgo biloba, an herbal extract from the Ginkgo tree used for centuries to support brain health and blood flow as a natural blood thinner. It doesn’t work like aspirin, but it does interfere with platelet clumping—the same process aspirin blocks. Aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that permanently disables platelets to reduce clotting is often taken daily by people with heart disease or stroke risk. When you combine them, you’re essentially doubling down on blood-thinning effects. Studies, including one published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found people taking both had a higher chance of bruising, nosebleeds, and even internal bleeding after minor injuries.

It’s not just about bleeding. Ginkgo can also affect how your body processes other drugs, including blood pressure meds and antidepressants. If you’re on any prescription, especially for heart or brain conditions, adding Ginkgo without telling your doctor is like driving with blind spots. And while many assume "natural" means safe, herbal supplements aren’t regulated like drugs—so the dose, purity, and effects can vary wildly between brands. The FDA doesn’t require them to prove safety before selling, which means you could be taking something stronger—or weaker—than you think.

So what should you do? If you’re already taking aspirin daily for heart health and considering Ginkgo for memory, talk to your pharmacist or doctor first. Don’t assume it’s harmless because it’s herbal. If you’re on blood thinners like warfarin or have a history of ulcers, strokes, or surgeries, the risk is even higher. Some people notice signs early—unusual bruising, longer bleeding from cuts, or blood in urine or stool. If that happens, stop Ginkgo immediately and get checked.

This collection of articles covers real-world medication interactions you won’t hear about in ads. You’ll find guides on how zinc affects antibiotics, why biotin messes with lab tests, how NSAIDs hurt kidneys, and what happens when you mix herbs with prescription drugs. These aren’t theoretical risks—they’re everyday mistakes people make because no one told them. The goal here isn’t to scare you. It’s to give you the facts so you can make smarter choices without guessing.