New research from the Alzheimer's Society has found that the use of Ginkgo biloba is not an effective treatment for patients with dementia.

The most comprehensive study on Ginkgo biloba to date concluded that the natural remedy has no benefits for people suffering from neurodegenerative conditions.

Commenting on the findings, lead researcher Dr Robert McCarney said: "Previous research suggested the alternative therapy has a small but significant effect, however, our findings provide the most robust evidence yet that, sadly, Ginkgo biloba is not an effective treatment for dementia."

Figures show that more than one in ten dementia sufferers in the UK use Ginkgo biloba in the hope of improving cognitive function.

Professor Clive Ballard, director of research at the Alzheimer's Society, added: "It's very disappointing that Ginkgo biloba does not benefit people with dementia. However, this is an extremely important finding. Thousands of people with dementia, who are already struggling to make ends meet, may buy Ginkgo biloba expecting an improvement in their memory."

According to the Alzheimer's Society, one in three older people in the UK will end their lives with a form of dementia.

The research was conducted over a six-month period and included 176 patients diagnosed with mild-moderate dementia. The study is published ahead of print online in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

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