Kerri Nichols Naturopathic Clinic

29/03/2026

25/03/2026

Ginkgo biloba is one of the most extensively studied herbal medicines in modern clinical research, with hundreds of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) across conditions such as cognitive decline, stroke recovery, tinnitus, peripheral arterial disease, anxiety and age-related vascular complaints. A common thread through much of this literature is circulatory physiology, particularly effects on endothelial function, blood flow regulation and microvascular perfusion. Rather than acting as a simple symptomatic agent, Ginkgo extract can be framed as a modulator of microcirculatory dynamics. Dizziness and vertigo, especially when aetiology is mixed or unclear, frequently have a vascular or microvascular component, which makes the therapeutic use of Ginkgo biologically plausible.

A 2026 trial directly compared standardised Ginkgo extract (120 mg/day) with betahistine (36 mg/day, best known under the proprietary name Serc) in 86 adults with dizziness or vertigo of unclear cause. It was randomised, double blind and placebo-matched, a methodologically sound design for a largely subjective symptom complex. Over 12 weeks, both groups improved significantly on validated measures (the 11-Point Box Scale and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory).

Betahistine showed a faster early response at week 2, with a large short-term effect size, but by week 12 there was no meaningful difference between the two treatments. In practical terms, both interventions were effective, and neither demonstrated clear superiority at the study endpoint. That said, with only 43 participants per arm, the study was likely underpowered to identify more modest, yet still clinically meaningful, between-treatment effects, and it was not designed as a formal non-inferiority trial.

This finding aligns with earlier research. A larger European multicentre RCT (n=160) in 2014 using 240 mg/day of Ginkgo extract also found it comparable to betahistine over 12 weeks. With 27 adverse events in 19 patients, Ginkgo showed better tolerability than betahistine with 39 adverse events in 31 patients.

Across multiple trials and pooled analyses, Ginkgo extract has shown consistent benefit in vertigo syndromes, particularly where vascular regulation may be relevant. The newer study is notable for demonstrating similar long-term outcomes at a lower Ginkgo dose, suggesting clinical activity even at 120 mg/day (about 6 g of the starting dried leaf).

Taken together, the evidence does not suggest that Ginkgo outperforms betahistine, but it does support the view that it performs similarly within standard dosing ranges. Betahistine may act more quickly, but Ginkgo appears to exert equal benefit over time. For clinicians, this positions Ginkgo extract as a legitimate therapeutic option in dizziness and vertigo, particularly where an altered microcirculatory rationale is compelling.

For more information see: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487075/

27/02/2026

If you’ve struggled with irregular periods, you might have noticed it can be a little tricky to figure out exactly what’s going on—and, therefore, exactly what you need to do to get your period back.

In a 15-minute solo episode, I explore some of the reasons for irregular periods, including PCOS and the oh-so-common hypothalamic suppression, which is *frequently misdiagnosed as PCOS*.

Link to listen, watch, or read: https://www.larabriden.com/irregular-periods-is-it-pcos-hypothalamic-suppression-or-something-else/?April

27/02/2026

A great resource! 😊

01/02/2026

Walking is already known as one of the simplest ways to support physical health, but scientific evidence shows it becomes even more powerful when done with others. Studies indicate that walking together can noticeably improve mood and reduce stress levels, offering benefits that go beyond movement alone.

Biologically, walking activates systems that regulate stress and emotional balance. Gentle physical activity lowers cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, while increasing endorphins that support calmness and positive mood. When walking with others, these effects are amplified through social connection. The brain responds to companionship by releasing oxytocin, a hormone linked to trust, safety, and emotional comfort.

Psychologically, shared movement creates a sense of belonging. Conversation flows more easily while walking, reducing pressure and encouraging openness. The rhythmic nature of walking also helps regulate breathing and nervous system activity, making it easier for the mind to settle. This combination supports clearer thinking and emotional stability.

Walking with others also reduces feelings of isolation, which are strongly linked to stress and low mood. Feeling seen and supported, even through casual companionship, helps the brain interpret the environment as safer and less demanding. Over time, this lowers baseline stress and improves resilience.

What makes this habit especially valuable is its accessibility. No equipment, gym membership, or special skills are needed. A short daily walk with a friend, partner, or group can quietly strengthen mental wellbeing and emotional health.

This research reinforces a comforting truth. Humans are wired for movement and connection. When the two come together, the benefits multiply naturally.

Sometimes the most effective support for the mind is as simple as moving forward, side by side.

20/01/2026

Hydration you can feel.
 
100% of panelists said their skin felt hydrated and nourished after using Aspect Restorative 8 Night Cream.

This luxurious formula works while you sleep, delivering deep hydration and essential nutrients for a visibly refreshed complexion by morning.🌙✨

08/01/2026

I’m deep into acne research right now. Looking beyond skincare to things like androgens, insulin, zinc, gut health, mast cells, dairy-free, DIM, berberine, and vitamin B5.

What’s helped your skin? Drop your favourite nutrition or lifestyle tips below. Especially the ones that don’t get talked about enough 👇

03/12/2025

Christmas is only 3 weeks away 🎄 if you are looking for a gift Aspect Skincare is available from my clinic 😊

21/10/2025

Aspect re-stock and beautiful Christmas Sculpt & Glow Kits 🎄 as well as two new products - Restorative 8 Night Cream & Phyto-Defence Super Antioxidant Serum!👌Aspect Skincare

16/10/2025

FYI - Apparently it’s 10 weeks to Christmas 🎄 😁

11/10/2025

Some Saturday afternoon 🎶😊

Official Music Video for “Left It In The River” by Jamie MacDonaldGet this song: https://JamieMacDonald.lnk.to/LeftItInTheRiverVD Subscribe to Jamie MacDonal...