What is Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is the oldest known tree species on earth with an estimated age of more than 200 million years. A ginkgo tree can live up to 1000 years. The medicinal seeds are found only in the inedible fruit of the female trees. Ginkgo is the most frequently prescribed medicinal herb in Europe. It makes sense that the oldest known tree is used for concerns that become more prevalent as we age.

Key Benefits & Uses of Ginkgo

Ginkgo is used to increase blood flow to the whole body but especially to the brain and extremities. The active components are flavone glycosides and potent antioxidant molecules. Free radicals are unstable molecules that in their bid to become more stable must bump into healthy cells and cause damage. Ginkgo’s antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals and therefore reduce damage to vessels all over the body, including those in the brain. It has anti-aging properties because as an antioxidant it protects the body against environmental pollutants and other substances that lead to aging.

Ginkgo increases circulation by making the blood flow freely, thus enhancing oxygen delivery and waste removal from cells. It may also improve the communication between brain and nerve cells. Ginkgo is used by natural health practitioners for a variety of conditions including senile dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, impotence, cold hands and feet and intermittent claudication (poor circulation in the legs). Students have also used it as a memory enhancer.

Shopping For Quality Ginkgo Biloba Supplements

Ginkgo is commonly purchased as an encapsulated herb or tincture. Ginkgo products should be standardized as an assurance of the amount of active compounds they contain. Ginkgo can be found in combination products for memory, eye health, cardiovascular health and sexual functioning. These trees are widely cultivated for their leaves and seeds so there is no concern with the ecological impact of ginkgo use. Interestingly they are also planted in cities because they can tolerate the harsh urban environment.

Ginkgo contains components that have blood-thinning properties. Ginkgo biloba supplements should be used with caution by individuals with active bleeding, blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure and individuals on blood thinning medication, including aspirin, or anti-hypertensives. For the same reason, Ginkgo supplements should be discontinued before surgery or dental work. Ginkgo can alter the effectiveness of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, a type of anti-depressant.