Ginkgo biloba is one of the most commonly used herbal medicines. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that extracts from the leaves of the ginkgo tree -- an ancient tree -- are used in teas, tablets and capsules to help treat a variety of ailments. The Center reports that a significant amount of ginkgo research has been performed. Before taking this herbal remedy to improve your health, talk with your family doctor about ginkgo's risks and benefits.
Plant Information
Ginkgo trees can live for as long as 1,000 years and reach heights of over 100 feet. This tree possesses short branches and fan-shaped leaves and bears fruit, although the fruit is not suitable for human consumption. Ginkgo trees, well known for their hardiness, are considered living fossils, and they are the oldest living tree species on the planet. The leaves of the ginkgo tree contain numerous medicinal substances, including quercetin, tannin, amino acids and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and C.
Herb Actions
In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," master herbalist Ed Smith states that ginkgo performs several important health actions. Ginkgo helps tone your circulatory system, improves metabolic functions in your brain cells, enhances your memory and your ability to learn and possesses antioxidant action. Ginkgo may be especially beneficial for boosting brain blood flow. This herbal remedy has anti-inflammatory properties, and it helps fight plaque build-up in your arteries and the formation of harmful blood clots.
Herb Uses
The health uses of ginkgo are numerous and varied. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher, certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," ginkgo has been prescribed to help slow the disease course of Alzheimer's, to help improve blood flow to your brain and extremities, and to treat conditions such as asthma, dementia and ringing in your ears. Other conditions this herb may effectively treat include headaches and certain types of impotence.
Warning
Certain herbs, including ginkgo, may not cause an immediate change in your health condition. In most cases, it may take several weeks before you notice measurable health benefits from taking ginkgo. Although ginkgo is often helpful for treating health problems, its use does not mean that your condition will be cured. In fact, some people may develop unwanted side effects when taking this herbal remedy. If you are considering using ginkgo, discuss dosage, side effects and other topics with your physician before using it.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ginkgo
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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