Ginkgo biloba is a tree species from which the leaves are extracted to make tablets, capsules and teas. These are used for various conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, dementia and poor circulation in the legs. Other uses include headaches, glaucoma, tinnitus, impotence and premenstrual syndrome. Ginkgo biloba is available over the counter in a pharmacy or a health food store. Always check with your doctor before taking nutritional supplements.
Actions of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba leaves have two types of chemicals called flavonoids and terpenoids, which have potent antioxidant activity. Antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging cells and causing cell death. Free radicals can cause health problems such as heart disease and cancer and may be increased by environmental toxins, such as radiation, cigarette smoking, ultraviolet light and air pollution, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Ginkgo biloba may also inhibit platelet aggregation and inflammation.
Blood Pressure
Ginkgo biloba purportedly improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to help eliminate toxins from the body. It also is thought to reduce the fragility of small blood vessels and improve blood circulation. Because of this action, ginkgo biloba may cause a decrease in your blood pressure.
Conventional Medical Treatment
Medical treatment is necessary if your blood pressure is high. Although ginkgo biloba could cause a decrease in blood pressure, high blood pressure that is not treated properly may lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Individuals must follow a physician's recommendations and use prescription medications when required. Do not substitute your medications with any other supplement, including ginkgo biloba, without speaking with a health care professional first.
Drug Interations
Ginkgo biloba may interact with the blood pressure medication nifedipine, which belongs to the class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. If you currently take nifedipine, avoid the concurrent use of ginkgo. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, ginkgo biloba may increase the risk of bleeding; individuals who take anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin or who have bleeding disorders should be cautious when considering using ginkgo biloba.
Evidence
Ginkgo biloba appears to lower blood pressure, but it has not been thoroughly tested in humans and has not been proven safe and effective, explains MayoClinic.com. Your physician can determine what the best medical treatment is for you. If ginkgo biloba does not increase the risk of adverse effects or drug interactions, you may use this herbal therapy in addition to your medication. However, always inform your physician and pharmacist of any and all herbal supplements you take.
