Tinnitus is a symptom characterized by chronic ringing in the ears, and may affect up to 10 percent of people, according to the BMJ website. It is a symptom, rather than a condition or disease, and may be caused by a variety of underlying factors. Because there are many causes tinnitus, no single treatment is considered effective for every person suffering from ringing in the ears. However, some alternative medicine practitioners believe that ginkgo biloba may help relieve symptoms in some people.
Herbal therapy is not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. Consult your physician before using ginkgo biloba to treat tinnitus.
Definition
Ginkgo biloba is an herb derived from the ginkgo tree, which is considered one of the oldest trees in the world. This tree is thought to have originated in China, although it is now cultivated in Japan, India and other areas. The leaves and seeds of this plant are used in a variety of alternative medicine practices, including treatment for memory loss, macular degeneration, heart disease and tinnitus, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs."
History
Ginkgo biloba has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, notes Castleman. In the Pen Tsao Ching, which is thought to be over 5,000 years old, the herb was recommended for heart and lung problems. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners also used ginkgo biloba as a treatment for asthma and swelling of the hands and feet. In India, Ayurvedic physicians believed that the herb could increase lifespan. In recent decades, herbalists have proposed new uses for ginkgo biloba, including treatment for the relief of tinnitus.
Preparation
Unlike other herbs, ginkgo biloba is rarely used in teas. Instead, it is typically only available as a pill supplement in the Western world, notes Castleman. Because of difficulties with shipping and storage, fresh bulk ginkgo biloba is not available in the west.
Expert Insight
According to the BMJ website, ginkgo biloba has not been shown to improve ringing in the ears in people who suffer from tinnitus, but who do not have cerebral insufficiencies or damage. However, the herb may be effective for people whose tinnitus suffers from cerebral insufficiencies.
The BMJ website notes that, irrespective of the pharmacological value of ginkgo biloba, people with tinnitus may choose to take this herb in the absence of other effective treatment options.
Considerations
Taking ginkgo biloba may cause several side effects, such as nausea, upset stomach, dizziness and allergic reactions, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Some medical researchers also believe that this herb may increase the risk of bleeding, and should not be used by people taking anticoagulant drugs. If bulk ginkgo is available in your area, you should not take the seeds. The uncooked seeds of the ginkgo biloba tree contain ginkgotoxin, a compound that can cause seizures or death.
References
- BMJ: Effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba in Treating Tinnitus
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ginkgo
