(ginkgo biloba)
Ginkgo biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree, is the world’s oldest living species of tree. Individual trees live as long as 1,000 years. Ginkgo grows most predominantly in the southern and eastern United States, southern France, China, and Korea. The leaves of the tree are used in modern herbal medicine.
What it does
Ginkgo contains two main groups of active constituents, 24% Ginkgo flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones. These compounds are powerful anti-oxidants and reduce the stickiness of the platelets in the blood, increase circulation and keep blood vessels toned and pliable.
Potential Uses
| Alzheimers disease | Oedema | Age related cognitive decline |
| Allergies | Asthma | Chilblains |
| Deep vein thrombosis | Stroke | Raynauds disease |
| Tension headaches | Transient Ischaemic Attacks | Tinnitus |
Medical Uses of Ginkgo Biloba:
Ginkgo Biloba, derived from the leaves of the ancient Ginkgo tree, has been prized in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits:
- Cognitive Enhancement: Ginkgo Biloba is believed to support cognitive function, potentially improving memory, focus, and mental clarity.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, it acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Improved Blood Circulation: Ginkgo Biloba may enhance blood flow, making it a potential aid for conditions associated with poor circulation, such as intermittent claudication.
- Mood Regulation: Some studies suggest it may have positive effects on mood and may be beneficial for individuals dealing with symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Vision Health: Ginkgo Biloba’s antioxidants and improved circulation properties may contribute to eye health, potentially benefiting conditions like glaucoma.
Recipes Using Ginkgo Biloba:
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Ginkgo Biloba Tincture:
- Ingredients: Ginkgo Biloba leaves, high-proof alcohol (like vodka).
- Instructions: Combine dried Ginkgo Biloba leaves with alcohol in a glass jar. Seal and let it infuse for several weeks, then strain. Take as directed for potential cognitive benefits.
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Ginkgo Biloba Tea Blend:
- Ingredients: Ginkgo Biloba leaves, green tea leaves, lemon peel, honey.
- Instructions: Blend Ginkgo Biloba leaves with green tea, lemon peel, and honey for a refreshing tea that combines the benefits of both herbs.
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Ginkgo Biloba Smoothie:
- Ingredients: Spinach, banana, almond milk, Ginkgo Biloba extract (available in health stores).
- Instructions: Blend spinach, banana, almond milk, and a few drops of Ginkgo Biloba extract for a nutrient-rich smoothie with potential cognitive benefits.
Incorporating Ginkgo Biloba into your daily routine through these recipes can be a natural and enjoyable way to tap into its potential health benefits. However, consult a healthcare professional for specific medical advice or concerns, especially if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant.
Other information
This herb has been shown to increase cerebral blood flow, and therefore oxygen and glucose utilisation in the brain. As well as improving vascular function in the brain, it increases the rate at which information is transmitted at the nerve cell level, an ability that is thought to be primarily due to a positive influence on neurotransmitter function. Clinical trials confirm that ginkgo extract improves short term memory, mental alertness and overall cognitive performance.
Ginkgo inhibits platelet-activating factor (PAF) – a major chemical trigger in asthma, inflammation and allergies.
Cautions
Not recommended for those taking the prescribed anti-coagulant Warfarin, heparin or aspiring for cerebrovascular disease.
Caution with platelet inhibitors, check with your doctor before taking ginkgo.
Ginkgo is generally free of side effects, occasionally it can cause headache or stomach upset in the first few days of taking it.
If you are diabetic and you take glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide, metformin, or repaglinide to not take Ginkgo without your doctors consent.
If you are using the anti-depressant drug trazodone avoid ginkgo.
