Vitamins And Supplements To Avoid Before Surgery

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a popular supplement used to treat a range of ailments including cognitive disorders, memory loss, dementia, vertigo, and glaucoma. Like many other herbal supplements, ginkgo biloba is dangerous to take in the period leading up to surgery because it interferes with the bodies natural clotting abilities and increases the risk for heavy bleeding during and after surgery. Individuals taking ginkgo biloba should discontinue use at least two weeks prior to surgery. Because the supplement can also interfere with clotting it is important for patients not to begin taking ginkgo biloba after surgery until they have spoken to their physician and are cleared to resume taking the supplement.