Ginkgo


The ginkgo tree is an ancient tree with no other living relatives. Its ancestors appear in the fossil record dating back 270 million years. In Chinese, ginkgo means “silver apricot." The ginkgo tree is extremely hardy and will grow in many environments. In 1945, the atomic bomb destroyed nearly all of the plants and animals in Hiroshima; however, the ginkgo trees survived and are alive to this day. Because of their durability and pleasant physical appearance, ginkgos are an excellent tree for urban environments.

Using Ginkgo

The ginkgo tree has been used in numerous forms for many years in China. The seeds have been used in traditional medicine and for cooking purposes, and the leaves are believed to contain substances beneficial to health. The extract of ginkgo leaves is usually made into tablets, capsules, or teas.

Ginkgo Research

As with many research studies done on herbal remedies, the results of ginkgo testing have been mixed. However, some studies have shown that ginkgo can have a positive effect on memory and other physical processes. Ginkgo leaf extract contains two types of antioxidants (flavonoids and terpenoids), which control free radicals in the body. Free radicals are toxic compounds that can cause cell death and resulting health problems like heart disease, cancer, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Flavonoids are also useful in protecting the nerves, the heart, and the retinas of the eyes. Ginkgo seems to contribute to better blood flow to the brain, which explains why some studies demonstrate its usefulness in helping to improve memory.

Effects of Gingko

The standard ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) formula is made up of 24% flavonoids and 6% terpenoids. As mentioned, it is also available in pill form and teas. Additionally, small amounts of ginkgo are contained in some energy drinks, although the amount in these drinks is usually too small to have any real effect. The usual effective dosage of GBE is 120 mg per day, spread out over two or three dosages. Most people see results in four to six weeks, although some say that it takes six months before major results can be observed.

People with blood disorders should use caution when considering ginkgo use. Because ginkgo improves blood flow, it may also prevent blood from clotting, which can be extremely dangerous to people with bleeding problems. It is also not recommended for children, pregnant women, or people who are taking certain anti-depressant medications. Ginkgo can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and restlessness.

By Jerome Gaw