Guide
Tinnitus supplements: what the research says
Read this before you spend money on anything for your ears.
Reviews haven't found good evidence that ginkgo, zinc or vitamin blends reduce tinnitus, and the UK's NICE guideline doesn't recommend any supplement for it. If you still want to try one, talk to a pharmacist first, especially if you take other medicines.
Ginkgo biloba
The most famous one. Reviews haven't found good evidence that it helps tinnitus. The latest Cochrane review found little to no effect compared with a placebo, though it says the evidence is very uncertain.
Zinc, magnesium and vitamins
No good evidence either, unless a doctor finds you're low in something. A blood test is a much better first step than a blend.
"Clinically proven" blends
Check who ran the study. Usually it's the company selling it. Look for independent reviews, a comparison group, and a plain statement of what changed. Testimonials aren't evidence.
What's usually recommended instead
- A hearing test, because tinnitus often comes with some hearing loss, and hearing aids may help if it does.
- CBT for tinnitus, which doesn't remove the sound but can make it less distressing.
- Help with sleep, including CBT for insomnia.
- Soft background sound. The research is limited, but it's cheap, and the NHS and Tinnitus UK both suggest it.
Before you buy anything
Ask a pharmacist, especially if you take other medicines, because some supplements can interact with them. And if something promises to cure tinnitus, please keep your money.
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Does ginkgo biloba help tinnitus?
Reviews haven't found good evidence that it does. The latest Cochrane review found little to no effect compared with a placebo, though the evidence is very uncertain. Speak to a pharmacist before trying it.
Is there a vitamin that helps tinnitus?
There's no good evidence that a vitamin reduces tinnitus unless you're actually low in something, which is a question for your doctor (GP).
Written by Matt, who has lived with tinnitus for 2 years. I'm not a doctor or an audiologist, and this isn't medical advice. Last updated 3 November 2026.