Ginkgo has been used medicinally for thousands of years and is now one of the most commonly used medicines in Europe for a wide range of conditions. Most medicinal ginkgo preparations are from the leaves but ginkgo seeds are also used in traditional Chinese medicine. Despite its long history as a therapeutic treatment, there is limited scientific information about the effectiveness of ginkgo for any health problem. It is therefore important to first consult your doctor before using ginkgo for medicinal purposes.
Identification and Dosing
Ginkgo is also commonly known as ginkyo, Ginkgo biloba, fossil tree, Japanese silver apricot, kew tree, maidenhair tree and yinhsing, among other names. It is available in pill form and as extracts and teas. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, or NMCD, ginkgo extract has been studied in doses ranging from 120 to 720 mg per day.
Uses
Ginkgo leaf extract is used in the treatment of conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, eye problems, exhaustion, sexual function problems, multiple sclerosis, ringing in the ears, premenstrual syndrome, schizophrenia and dizziness. It is also used for managing memory disorders, thinking problems from Lyme disease and depression, and for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of dementia. Other uses include problems with blood circulation such as peripheral vascular disease, claudication and Raynaud's syndrome.
Effectiveness
NMCD reports that ginkgo is possibly effective for treating Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, cognitive problems, blood circulation disorders, dizziness, premenstrual syndrome, glaucoma, and color vision in diabetics. Ginkgo is considered as possibly ineffective for managing ringing in the ears, depression from seasonal affective disorder, medication-induced sexual problems and altitude sickness. It is also rated as likely ineffective for treating heart disease. Effectiveness of ginkgo has not been rated for other conditions.
Considerations
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, ginkgo can cause side effects such as stomach problems, headache, lightheadedness, allergic reactions, diarrhea and increased bleeding risk. Ginkgo seeds, even when roasted, contain a chemical called ginkgotoxin that can cause dangerous reactions, including seizures and death. The leaf extracts contain much less ginkgotoxin and are generally safe when used correctly.
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