Ginkgo

Ginkgo Biloba As An Herbal Supplement

Ginkgo biloba, often called maidenhair, is one of the oldest surviving tree species on the planet. Indeed, the Ginkgo tree is known for its incredible resilience and ability to tolerate pollution, pests, and disease. In fact, in 1945, six ginkgo trees survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, and they still thrive today, serving as a symbol of hope and endurance. This explains why the Ginkgo biloba tree is considered a living fossil that has remained relatively unchanged for over 270 million years. 

More concretely, Ginkgo biloba is a deciduous tree native to China, but it has been cultivated and spread to various parts of the world since then. Ginkgo belongs to the Ginkgoaceae family and is the only living species within its genus. The tree typically reaches 66-115 feet and boasts a unique appearance with two-lobed, fan-shaped leaves that turn a bright yellow in the fall. Its seeds, encased in a fleshy, foul-smelling fruit, have a long history of medicinal uses. 

Most notably, Ginkgo biloba has a storied history in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it has been used to address various health issues, including asthma, digestive disorders, and memory enhancement. Ginkgo is still used in many of the same applications today. However, we have learned much more about its numerous therapeutic qualities, which is why we use it in a much more comprehensive array of conditions. 

Top Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba Herbs

• Enhances Circulation & Promotes Heart Health
• Helps Relieve Symptoms Of Dementia (Anxiety, Stress, Depression)
• Improves Brain Function
• Increases Lung Capacity & Reduces Inflammation In The Airways
• Reduces The Rate Of Cognitive Decline In People With Dementia
• Supports Vision And Eye Health

Who Should Consider Ginkgo?

Adding Ginkgo to one's daily regimen can be an excellent idea for many people. However, it may be especially appealing to older adults looking to maintain mental sharpness and delay/prevent age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, students and professionals seeking improved focus and concentration may find Ginkgo biloba supplements helpful in their daily routines. Its vasodilatory effects can promote better blood circulation, which can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like Raynaud's disease and intermittent claudication. Additionally, individuals with anxiety, depression, or mood disordersmay discover some relief from these symptoms, as Ginkgo biloba has been shown to possess considerable mood-enhancing properties.

Ginkgo Biloba Supplements: Formats, Potency & Dosage

Ginkgo biloba comes in a wide variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, liquid extracts, and teas. It is also frequently added to brain health blends, cardio formulas, and more. The typical dosage range for ginkgo biloba supplements can vary depending on the product, extract concentration, and your reason for supplementing.

Here are a few dosing guidelines according to health goals for a high-quality standardized extract providing 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene lactones:

Standard Dosage – A typical standard dosage for ginkgo extract is 120 to 240 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. 

Cognitive Enhancement – Higher doses between 240 to 360 mg daily are ideal for cognitive enhancement. However, it's important to start with a lower dose and increase gradually to assess your tolerance.

Circulation and Peripheral Issues – For conditions related to circulation and peripheral issues (such as intermittent claudication or Raynaud's disease), doses around 120 to 240 mg or higher may be recommended. However, you should consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance.

Short-Term Use – Ginkgo biloba is sometimes used at higher doses (up to 600 mg daily) for short-term purposes, like treating acute cognitive issues. However, this should only be done under medical supervision.

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Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal disturbances such as stomach upset or headaches when taking Ginkgo biloba. Additionally, Ginkgo may interact with blood-thinning medications, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. People with a history of bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgery should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using Ginkgo biloba. 

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as those with allergies to plants like poison ivy, should also avoid its use. Other medications that may not combine well with Ginkgo include SSRIs/MAOIs/antidepressants (such as Prozac and Zoloft) and NSAIDS (like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others).