Ginkgo biloba is famous for its ability to enhance cognitive function, but it has many other impressive qualities that shouldn't be overlooked. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo biloba is one of the most extensively studied botanicals in the United States. It is widely used in integrative medicine and is one of the top-selling herbs in America and Europe.
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species and has been used in medicine for thousands of years. A single ginkgo tree can live up to 1,000 years and grows to be 120 feet high, says the University of Maryland Medical Center website. The leaves of the gingko tree contain the chemicals flavonoids and terpenoids, which have strong antioxidant properties. Ginkgo is widely used for its antioxidant effects. There are more than 40 components that have been identified within the ginkgo tree that are responsible for the herb's medicinal effects.
Evidence of Usage
According to the Mayo Clinic, there is strong scientific evidence that ginkgo biloba is useful for claudication (painful legs from reduced blood flow) and for dementia. There is good scientific evidence that ginkgo is useful for confusion, poor concentration, absent-mindedness, fatigue, depression, dizziness, headache and anxiety.
Ginkgo and Claudication
The use of ginkgo for painful legs due to lack of blood flow or clogged arteries has been studied because of ginkgo's ability to improve blood flow. Although more studies are needed, it has been found that taking gingko can improve claudication symptoms in persons who experience pain after excising or while at rest.
Ginkgo and Dementia
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo is widely used in Europe to treat dementia because it increases blood flow to the brain. Further studies have shown that ginkgo has positive effects on the memories and thinking patterns of those experiencing Alzheimer's. The benefits of using ginkgo are improved social behavior and activities of daily living, as well as decreased feelings of depression.
Ginkgo and Cerebral Insufficiency
Ginkgo is known for increasing blood flow to the brain, so enhancing cognitive performance is an obvious area of research. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there are some studies that prove slight benefits of using the herb for cerebral enhancement. It seems that doses of at least 240 mg per day are effective.
Ginkgo Dosages
Mayo Clinic suggests that ginkgo be used only for adults over the age of 18. Dosing ranges between 80 and 240 milligrams by mouth daily, in two to three divided dosages. Ginkgo is also available in tea form, bags usually contain 30 milligrams of extract, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Safety
Mayo Clinic says that overall, ginkgo biloba is well tolerated by most adults when taken at the recommended dosage. Occasional side effects include headache, nausea, and intestinal problems. Eating the seeds is not recommended as they can be poisonous. Bleeding has been associated with taking ginkgo, therefore, persons taking any drugs/herbs/supplements to thin the blood should use ginkgo with caution. Also, persons with known bleeding disorders should not use ginkgo unless told to do so by a medical professional.
Member Comments