Ginkgo, CoQ10, Riboflavin and Magnesium Studied for Headaches

A recent clinical trial investigated the effect of a Ginkgo biloba extract combined with CoQ10, riboflavin and magnesium on headaches in school-aged children. Previous studies have shown that Ginkgo extract has antioxidant properties and improves circulation, particularly to the brain. Previous research in adults also indicates that Ginkgo biloba may affect the neurotransmitter glutamate as well as platelet-activating factor. Numerous studies also have indicated that CoQ10, riboflavin and magnesium can improve the health of adults who are experiencing severe headaches.

In this new study, school-aged children with frequent, severe headaches were supplemented with a combination of Ginkgolide B, a constituent of Ginkgo leaf plus the antioxidant Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), riboflavin (vitamin B2) and magnesium for 3 months’ duration. The children were evaluated for the frequency of headaches.

The results of the study showed that the combination of Ginkgolide B, CoQ10, riboflavin and magnesium resulted in less frequent episodes of severe headaches in the children. In fact, the average frequency of headaches in children decreased from nearly 10 attacks per month to less than 5 attacks per month with the supplement.

The researchers stated that in the management of headaches in children, the use of alternative methods should be considered as they provide a “soft” approach without adverse reactions.

Reference:

Esposito M, Carotenuto M. Ginkgolide B complex efficacy for brief prophylaxis of migraine in school-aged children: an open-label study. Neurol Sci. 2010 Sep 25. Published Online Ahead of Print.