Gingko biloba is one of the most ancient herbs known to man. Used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, gingko biloba is extracted from the leaves of the ginkgo tree, a plant which Charles Darwin once called a living fossil due its lack of change over the last several hundred million years. In ancient times, the Chinese used gingko to treat conditions such as memory loss and respiratory problems, as well as thought to combat aging. Nowadays, gingko trees thrive all over the world, and its herbal extract is one of the most popular herbal remedies in
alternative medicine.
Chemically, gingko biloba is composed of two major elements: ginkgo flavone glycosides and terpene lactones. Gingko flavone glycosides are bioflavanoids which are helpful as antioxidants and decreasing blood clotting. There are two major terpene lactones found in gingko. The first, known as ginkgolide, helps improve circulation. The second, bilobalide has been demonstrated in laboratory studies to help repair damaged nerve cells.
Gingko is effective in its ability to increase blood circulation, which makes it valuable for many different symptoms. Its increase circulatory effects helps the body supply oxygen to all the body parts, including the brain. Because of this, gingko is thought to play a role in reducing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Gingko has also been called the “smart herb” because of its ability to increase blood flow to the brain – studies have demonstrated that ginkgo can help improve memory loss and improve concentration. It also seems to have a beneficial effect on other conditions arising from vascular conditions, such as the reduction of blood pressure, reducing blood clotting, asthma, headaches, tinnitus, vertigo, muscle cramps, and impotence.
The antioxidant attributes of ginkgo give it much of its healing power. The brain, because of its susceptibility to free radical attack, needs greater antioxidant support, and gingko is a good source of this. Some experts suggest that free radical attack on the brain is a leading cause of Alzheimer’s, and this is what makes gingko an effective combatant.
Unlike many herbs, gingko biloba is unique in that its healing properties have been well-documented by Western medicine. Indeed, a study in the Journal of the American Medical Associated reported that ginkgo provides much needed support in the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia, and hundreds of other studies over the years have attested to its healing properties.
Overall, gingko is considered a very safe herb, with little or no side effects. Dosage varies depending on the condition; follow directions on the label or from a qualified professional. People taking extremely high doses may experience symptoms such as diarrhea and nausea – should this happen lower or discontinue your usage. As always, consult a qualified medical professional before deciding to take any herbal supplements, particularly if you are on prescription medication or have a health condition. For example, if you have a condition that requires you to take blood-thinners, or you take any type of painkiller on a regular basis, talk to your doctor before taking gingko, as its blood circulatory properties can enhance the effect of the medication, leading to potential internal bleeding.
Should you choose to use gingko, make sure that you get the herb from a reputable source. There are many companies out there who produce herbal supplements, but not all of them standardize their product correctly. If the herb is not properly extracted, it can be worthless, and a waste of money. Talk to people you know who have tried gingko and ask the for their recommendations, or ask a salesperson at a health food store. A little research will go a long way in helping you enjoy the benefits of this ancient and wonderful herb.
