Ginkgo biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree, is one of the oldest species of trees on the planet. The tree is considered to be a “living fossil”, meaning that it has continued to survive even after major extinction events. Ginkgo trees have very unique properties – they are capable of growing more than 130 feet and can live for over one thousand years. In fact, there are some trees in China are said to be over 2,500 years old. The plant has a number of therapeutic properties and contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, these are antioxidants that provide protection against oxidative cell damage from harmful free radicals. Over recent years, ginkgo supplements have become increasingly popular – they are currently among the top-selling herbal medications. Researchers believe that ginkgo improves cognitive function because it promotes good blood circulation in the brain and protects it from neuronal damage. It also has a beneficial effect on chilblains again because of its ability to promote good circulation. Ginkgo may also help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety. Ginkgo biloba was first used for its medicinal properties in Ancient China. The Chinese took ginkgo for its claimed cognitive benefits and to alleviate symptoms of asthma, they also ate ginkgo nuts because of their “strengthening” properties. other traditional uses of ginkgo biloba include:
- Preventing bed wetting
- Increasing sexual energy
- Soothe bladder irritation
- Treating intestinal worms
- and Treating gonorrhea.
Caution: Patients with blood circulation disorders or individuals on anticoagulants, such as aspirin, are at risk of experiencing undesirable effects after taking ginkgo. In addition, if you are on antidepressants you are strongly advised not to take ginkgo as it inhibits monoamine oxidase, reducing the effectiveness of the medications (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors). As always thoroughly research your herb before using it!
There are various conditions where Ginkgo has been used to help, showing beneficial effects in all, these are;
- Arterial circulatory problems – This condition can cause blood clots and stop or restrict the blood flow to important parts of the body and organs like the heart. Ginkgo can help to stop blood clots forming and help to keep a healthy circulation system
- Cerebral atherosclerosis – This condition is when there is hardening and blockages of the arteries. Ginkgo can help to relieve these symptoms by softening the arteries and helping to unblock the blood vessels
- Cerebral edema – This condition is where the body tissue contains a high amount of fluid. This condition can affect the vessels, and Ginkgo can help to relieve this fluid tension in the blood vessels
- Impairment to memory/ability to concentrate – Ginkgo has been noted in some clinical trials to aid memory. There has been extensive research on this factor, but many people try taking Ginkgo to try and help aid their memory. It helps to increase the blood flow to the brain which is usually the common cause for brain and memory conditions
- Arterial obstruction – Ginkgo helps to restore the natural blood flow in blocked arteries. It is used widely used to help treat conditions where this appears, and studies have shown positive effects that Ginkgo has had as a treatment
- Reynard’s disease – This condition is when the hands and feet are exposed to the cold and can not warm back up again. This is because the blood vessels are not flowing properly to these extremities. Ginkgo can help to restore the proper blood flow which helps the hands and feet to recover from the cold, helping relieve the symptoms of Reynard’s such as pins and needles and numbness
- Alzheimer’s disease – This disease takes away the ability for the person to do every day things. People can lose their memory through this disease, and is a degenerative disease. Ginkgo has been used to help the symptoms of this condition, helping to aid alertness and memory
- Vertigo – Ginkgo has also had positive effects on helping people who suffer from vertigo, by relieving the dizziness, and nausea.
Suggested Dosage Ginkgo Biloba powder- Take 3 to 5 grams, 1/2 to 1 teaspoons up to three times a day Use mixed with juice or milk.