The ginkgo tree is one of the oldest trees in the world, and its seeds have long been used by Chinese healers. Ginkgo biloba is the Latin name for the herb that is commonly used in modern alternative medicine. According to the National Center on Complementary and Alternative Medicine, extracts from the ginkgo leaf are used to make capsules, teas, creams and tablets to treat everything from asthma and fatigue to memory loss and sexual dysfunction. You should check with your doctor if you plan on taking ginkgo biloba supplements, because there are side effects to the herb that could interfere with your current medical treatment.
Reactions
Everyone reacts differently to various herbs. It is possible to be allergic to ginkgo biloba and experience allergic side effects such as rash, sneezing and watery eyes. The National Center on Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that severe allergic reactions such as airway obstruction and seizures are rare, but possible. More common reactions to the herb include dizziness, nausea, headaches and diarrhea.
Bleeding
The properties that increase circulation in ginkgo, while stimulating for some, can cause serious bleeding problems for others. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research is inconclusive if the herb causes bleeding or not, but with the inherent risk, it is best to talk to your doctor if you have any bleeding disorders or are taking anticoagulants. Tell your doctor or dentists about your gingko use if you are getting ready to have surgery or a dental procedure that creates an open wound.
Seizures
There is a chemical called gingkotoxin in uncooked gingko biloba seeds. The chemical has been known to cause seizures. When taken over a long period of time, continued consumption of uncooked gingko seeds can cause death. National Center on Complementary and Alternative Medicine researchers report that most supplements on the market are free of gingkotoxins. People with epilepsy should not take ginkgo biloba, since it has been linked to seizures, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Interactions
Ginkgo biloba can interact with some prescription and nonprescription medications because of its effect on the metabolism. Anti-convulsant medications may become ineffective when taking the herbal supplements. Antidepressants often do not mix well with gingko. In addition to reacting with blood thinners, gingko can alter the effects of blood pressure medication, diabetic medicine to control blood sugar and diuretics.
Member Comments