Ginko biloba information

Source:
Ginko biloba (Ginko biloba ) - trees are found in China, Korea, southern France, and the southeast part of the United States. Interestingly, Ginko Biloba trees can live over one thousand years. These trees as might be expected are practically immune to pollution, drought, and insects. The Ginko Biloba tree has distinctive fan shaped leaves with a

Traditional uses:
Ginkgo has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years. Ginko biloba was so important to ancient Chinese culture that the tree was cultivated inside the walls of their fortresses. The Chinese would take Ginko in order to promote a generalized feeling of well being and as a stimulus to improve cognitive functioning.

Physiology:
Researchers believe that there are several substances that are important in promoting the positive effects of Ginko biloba i.e. flavanoids (ginko-flavone glycosides) and terpenes (ginkgolides and bilobalide). Flavanoids are credited with neutralizing the free radicals and improving circulation by causing the dilating the small blood vessels, thus, protecting the brain from oxygen deprivation.

Clinical Studies:
The main focus of most of the clinical studies concerning Ginko biloba is centered around concentration and memory. Several studies have shown significant improvements in both memory and concentration versus placebo. Israel ET. Ginkgo biloba and memory training. Psychol Med. Paris: 1987;19(8):1431-1439. Grässel. Effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on mental performance. Double-blind study using computerized measurement conditions in patients with cerebral insufficiency. Fortschr Med. 1992;110(5):73-78.

Modern day uses:
Today, Ginko biloba is prescribed by physicians and herbal specialist for the the following positive effects:

• Increased circulation - Ginko biloba increases circulation to both the brain and extremities. Physicians prescribe the herb for the treatment of claudication (a squeezing or tight pain in the foot, calf, thigh, or buttock that occurs during exercise secondary to poor circulation). Ginko bliloba inhibit platelet-activating-factor (PAF) promoting circulation.
• Cognitive functioning - the herb as shown to help individuals with age relate cognitive deficits from Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the herb is know being recommended by physicians along with Vitamin E for the elderly to delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Gingo biloba is also well-known for its effect on memory and thinking in the general population, an estimatéd 11 million American currently take Ginko biloba to improve cognitive function.
• Antioxidant - acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals. Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute to premature aging and dementia
• Tinnitus - The herb is reported to decrease the symptoms of tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and problems with balance secondary to iner ear complications.
• Antidepressant - Ginko biloba has proved to b successful in treating

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician prior to taking any new supplements. More specifically, mild stomach irritation and headaches are reported by a small percentage of individuals using Ginko biloba. Reported side effects usually resolve within 1-2 days upon discontinuation of the herbal supplement. Pregnant and breast feeding women should refrain from using Ginko biloba unless approved by their OB/GYN (return to homepage).