Ginkgo and ginseng are two medicinal herbs of Chinese descent that have been researched for their potential health benefits. Ginseng is effective at improving thinking and can reduce leg pain when walking, according to the National Institute of Health. Ginkgo improves thinking, can help regulate blood glucose levels and may potentially improve athletic performance, the NIH reports. Blood glucose regulation can help control appetite while the increased focus and performance benefits may facilitate longer workouts.
Step 1
Pour 8 oz. of water into drinking cup.
Step 2
Place one ginkgo capsule in your mouth.
Step 3
Pour small amount of water from the drinking glass in your mouth.
Step 4
Swallow the ginkgo capsule.
Step 5
Place another ginseng capsule in your mouth.
Step 6
Pour small amount of water from the drinking glass in your mouth.
Step 7
Swallow the ginseng pill.
Step 8
Consume remainder of the water.
Step 9
Wait three to four hours and begin to exercise. The ginkgo and ginseng combination should allow you to focus more intently on your workout. This should allow more calories to be burned and help you lose more weight; however, research into the exact effectiveness isn't clear.
Tips and Warnings
- Ginseng and ginkgo should be consumed with a meal for maximal uptake. Ginkgo and ginseng use should be reserved for long duration cardiovascular activities for maximal effectiveness.
- The NIH states that ginseng and ginkgo may be unsafe for pregnant women. Do not take ginkgo with ibuprofen, anticoagulates and warfarin. Be careful with the ingestion of insulin because of its ability to reduce blood sugar. Consult your doctor to ensure ginseng and ginkgo are safe for you.
References
- MedlinePlus: Ginkgo
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ginkgo
- MedlinePlus: Ginseng, Panax
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Asian Ginseng
- "The Medical Journal of Australia"; The Effectiveness of Popular, Non-Prescription Weight Loss Supplements; Garry Egger, David Cameron-Smith and Rosemary Stanton; 1999



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