Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team May 14, 2026 46 minutes ago
Medical News: Millions of people around the world continue to struggle with “brain fog” months after recovering from COVID-19, and now researchers are exploring whether herbal medicine could offer some relief. A new scientific review has found that certain herbal treatments, especially Ginkgo biloba, may help improve memory, concentration, fatigue, and mental clarity linked to Long COVID.
Researchers discover that herbal medicines like Ginkgo biloba may help reduce Long COVID brain fog and cognitive fatigue
The research was conducted by scientists from the Faculty of Health & Education at Torrens University Australia in Brisbane, including Ekaterina Schultz and Ian Breakspear.
Long COVID’s Hidden Neurological Damage
Long COVID, also known as Post-COVID-19 Condition, affects a surprisingly large number of people after infection with SARS-CoV-2. Researchers estimate that up to half of those infected may continue to experience lingering symptoms. Among the most troubling are neurological problems such as memory loss, poor attention span, mental exhaustion, confusion, slower thinking, anxiety, and emotional instability.
The review found that between 20 and 60 percent of Long COVID sufferers may develop some form of cognitive dysfunction. Scientists believe this may be linked to ongoing inflammation, oxidative stress, blood vessel damage, and immune system disturbances affecting the brain.
More alarmingly, several recent studies suggest that the biological pathways involved in Long COVID brain fog resemble those seen in Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers warn that persistent inflammation triggered by the coronavirus could potentially increase the future risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Herbal Medicine Draws Scientific Attention
Because there are still no highly effective treatments for Long COVID brain fog, researchers began examining whether herbal medicine could help support recovery.
The review analyzed medical literature published between 2020 and 2025 and identified five human clinical studies focused specifically on herbal medicine for Long COVID-related cognitive issues. These included case studies, a randomized controlled trial, a pilot study, and a retrospective cohort study.
One of the strongest signals came from studies involving Ginkgo biloba extract known as EGb761®. In a small case series involving five Long COVID patients with cognitive impairment, participants taking the extract reportedly experienced noticeable improvements in concentration, mental clarity, and overall cognitive performance within about 7 to 16 weeks.
Importantly, researchers noted that no serious side effects were reported.
Scientists explained that Ginkgo biloba contains active compounds called flavonoids and terpenoids, including ginkgolides and bilobalide. These compounds appear to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. They may also improve oxygen delivery to the brain and reduce harmful amyloid plaque buildup associated with neurological degeneration.
Traditional Herbal Formulas A
lso Showed Promise
Other studies reviewed involved traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal formulas.
One Japanese case study described a woman suffering from severe Long COVID fatigue and brain fog. She was treated with a multi-part recovery plan that included the herbal formula hochuekkito alongside vitamin C, dietary adjustments, exercise, and medication. Within weeks, her mental fatigue and concentration problems began improving, and by week 21 she reported nearly complete recovery.
Another Korean pilot study tested several traditional herbal formulas in 45 Long COVID patients. Although statistical improvements were modest, some participants experienced better memory and reduced cognitive symptoms over time.
Researchers also examined Triphala, a well-known Ayurvedic herbal blend. In a randomized controlled trial involving 78 participants, Triphala appeared to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress markers linked to Long COVID. However, the study did not show major direct improvements in cognitive symptoms compared to placebo.
Why Researchers Remain Cautious
Despite encouraging signs, scientists emphasized that current evidence remains limited. Most studies involved small patient numbers, short treatment periods, and varying herbal combinations, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. This
Medical News report highlights that while herbal medicine may eventually become part of Long COVID treatment strategies, much larger and more rigorous clinical trials are urgently needed before doctors can confidently recommend these therapies.
The researchers stressed that future studies should use standardized definitions of Long COVID brain fog, clearer cognitive testing methods, and better-designed placebo-controlled trials. They also called for more research into exactly how herbal compounds interact with inflammation and brain pathways damaged by COVID-19.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that herbal medicine, especially Ginkgo biloba extracts, may hold real potential in helping people suffering from Long COVID-related cognitive problems. The evidence so far points toward possible benefits involving reduced inflammation, improved blood flow, antioxidant protection, and support for damaged brain cells. However, current research remains too limited to confirm effectiveness with certainty. Scientists say larger clinical studies are essential to determine proper dosages, treatment duration, safety, and long-term benefits. Until then, herbal medicine should be viewed as a promising but still experimental approach for Long COVID brain fog recovery.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Advances in Integrative Medicine.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212958826000649
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