Organic Connections Ginkgo Leaf (Organic Loose) - 454g

Ginkgo Biloba
By: Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)

With anti-aging properties Ginkgo Biloba very useful for memory enhancement, alzheimer’s and more...

Gingko biloba is the oldest known tree species on earth with an estimated age of more than 200 million years. A gingko tree can live up to 1000 years. The medicinal seeds are found only in the inedible fruit of the female trees. Gingko 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.

Gingko is used to increase blood flow to the whole body but especially to the brain and extremities. The active components are flavone glycosides, potent antioxidant molecules. Free radicals are unstable molecules that in their bid to become more stable must bump into healthy cells and cause damage. Gingko’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 other substances that lead to aging.

Gingko increases circulation by making the blood flow freely, thus enhancing oxygen delivery to and waste removal from cells. Gingko may also improve the communication between brain and nerve cells. Gingko 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.

Gingko is commonly purchased as encapsulated herb or tincture. Gingko products should be standardized as an assurance of the amount of active compounds they contain. Gingko 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 gingko use. Interestingly they are also planted in cities because they can tolerate the harsh urban environment.

Gingko contains components that have blood-thinning properties. Gingko 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, gingko supplements should be discontinued prior to surgery or dental work. Gingko can alter the effectiveness of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, a type of anti-depressant.

Gingko– Quick Facts

Parts Used
· Leaves, Seeds.

Applications
· Poor Circulation To The Extremities, Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, Poor Memory, Asthma, Impotence, Ringing In The Ears, Macular Degeneration

Optimum Dosage
· Oral 120-240mg Daily, Standardized To 24-27% Flavone Glycosides And 6-7% Triterpenes. (Clinical Doses May Be Higher As Recommended By Your Practitioner).

Works Well With
· Lecithin, Phosphatidyl Serine, Bioflavinoids, Vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, Bilberry

Important Information
· Gingko Can Cause Headache, Allergic Skin Or Gastrointestinal Reactions But Such Reactions Are Rare.
· Gingko Should Not Be Used With Blood Thinners, Including Aspirin And Should Be Discontinued 2 Weeks Prior To Surgery.
· Individuals Who Use High Blood Pressure Medication, Anti-Inflammatories Or Maoi Drugs Should Use Gingko With Caution.