Ginkgo

Ginkgo Biloba Overview 

Ginkgo biloba is more than 250 million years old, and is probably the only surviving species of the Ginkgo family. It also has a venerable position in the history of herbal treatments. Ginkgo biloba extract is among the best selling herbal medications in Europe. In France and Germany, it ranks among the top five medications prescribed.

Chinese folk medicine discovered the beneficial effects of Ginkgo more than 5,000 years ago. It was used to relieve pain and to treat cough, colds and asthma. Ginkgo is also believed to possess strong anti-oxidant properties. Thus it helps scavenge free radicals and fight cancer.

Ginkgo biloba is widely cultivated in China and Japan. People in China chew the roasted seeds of the herb to aid the digestive process and reduce the occurrence of flatulence. The seeds also help metabolize alcohol. Therefore chewing on them after a bout with the bottle is followed religiously in this part of the world.

The Ginkgo tree is a little difficult to grow. However, once it catches root, it is a tough and resilient survivor. A single tree can live for as long as 1,000 years and grow to an astounding 120 feet in height.

Using Ginkgo Biloba

Wouldn’t it be nice to pop a few pills and remember everything you studied last night?

Ginkgo is most popular throughout the west for the wonders it can do to your memory and retention process. Many studies have shown that it increases blood circulation to the brain. Thus it aids in a number of brain functions like recognition, recollection, concentration and attention. It is widely used by children as a wonder herb for the brain. In some cases, Ginkgo is used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and dementia related to senility. Ginkgo is often used preventively to delay the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease in someone who is at high risk. Raynaud’s disease – caused by poor circulation in the hands – is also treated using Ginkgo. This is because the herb supplies fresh blood to the extremities.

Diseases Treated by Ginkgo Biloba 

Some other diseases that are treated using Ginkgo include:

• Tinnitus
• Eczema
• Altitude sickness
• Sexual dysfunction, especially in men
• Progressive eye disorders
• Intermittent claudication

Ginkgo increases the body’s ability to withstand lack of oxygen. It also helps stem the swelling in the brain and the retina. Ginkgo also plays a major role in protecting the nerves of the brain. It is so popular in this capacity that it is often added to nutrition bars and fruit smoothies that claim to enhance memory and boost cognitive performance.

Herbalists also prescribe Ginkgo biloba for a variety of health problems including asthma, depression, disorientation, high blood pressure and vertigo.

Ginkgo Biloba Cautions 

Ginkgo extract is considered relatively harmless and side effects are very rare. It is recommended for children because of its memory enhancing properties. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to stay away from the herb. Since Ginkgo decreases platelet aggregation, there is some concern that it may indirectly lead to brain hemorrhage. The use of Gingko should be discontinued at least 36 hours before surgery. The Ginkgo biloba fruit is not fit for eating. Anyone using any medication that may have actions similar to Ginkgo must take the herb only after consulting a doctor.