Ginkgo Biloba | Enhanced Brain Function & Energy

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba extract comes from the dried leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree. Gingko biloba is the oldest living tree species with the tree living up to 1,000 years old and growing to a height of 120 feet. Short branches with fan-shaped leaves characterize the ginkgo biloba tree. The tree grows odorous fruit that cannot be eaten. Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has been standardized and used for a variety of health reasons. It is specifically most recognized for its ability to improve cognitive function and increase blood circulation throughout the body.

How GBE Works

Flavonoids and terpenoids are the two primary components believed to be responsible for ginkgo’s beneficial impact on the human body. Flavonoids (such as quercetin and rutin) are potent antioxidants and help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Specifically, studies have shown that flavonoids guard the nervous system, heart, blood vessels, and retina from damage. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals, which are damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and induce cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins such as ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution can increase the development of damaging free radicals. Free radicals can contribute to several health problems, including heart disease and cancer as well as Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Terpenoids (such as ginkgolides) increase circulation. They cause dilation of blood vessels and inhibit blood platelets from sticking together. GBE can be used to help treat multiple conditions and enhance health in several areas due to its antioxidant effect and ability to improve blood flow.

Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

• Improves brain function and memory
• Increases blood flow
• May prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Diminishes symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
• Preserves eyesight by preventing retinal damage
• May treat intermittent claudication
• May help treat tinnitus
• Can improve symptoms of multiple sclerosis
• Potential alternative for HRT in menopausal women

Ginkgo Biloba extract has been found in numerous studies to enhance cognitive function. It is reported to improve memory and help people think more clearly. Ginkgo is gaining momentum in its ability to treat dementia, especially in Europe. Its efficacy is due to the fact that it increases blood flow to the brain as well protects the nervous system with its powerful antioxidants. Ginkgo is also very promising for improving brain function in people with Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical studies suggest that ginkgo may improve thinking, learning, and memory in AD patients. It has also been found to improve the ability to participate in daily activities. Ginkgo improves social behavior and decreases the occurrence of feelings of depression. Finally, studies have shown that GBE may help delay the symptoms of dementia and can even help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in people who are considered high risk due to family history.

Ginkgo Biloba can help preserve eyesight and prevent retinal damage in people affected by diabetes or age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). It can reduce pain and enhance the ability to walk in people with intermittent claudication, which is pain caused by inadequate blood flow to the legs. Some research has indicated that ginkgo can help relieve tinnitus (a ringing or hissing sound in the ears). However, research concerning its use for this ailment is fairly inconclusive. Additionally, GBE has been used with success for other conditions including altitude sickness, asthma, depression, disorientation, headaches, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and vertigo. One study reported that Ginkgo improved coordination, energy levels, strength, mood, sensation, and cognitive performance in 22 patients with multiple sclerosis. Another study found that GBE has estrogenic activity and can reduce the effects of menopause as well as reduce the risk for osteoporosis and heart disease in women. Therefore, GBE is very promising as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopausal women.

Dosage

Ginkgo Biloba extract can be taken in liquid extract form, as ginkgo tablets or capsules, and the dried leaves can be used to make tea. It is not recommended that children under the age of 12 take ginkgo biloba. For most adults, it is generally recommended to take 120 mg daily in divided doses. For patients with more progressed dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, 240 mg daily in two or three divided doses could be necessary.

Side Effects

GBE is considered to be safe with very few side effects. There have been reported incidents of gastrointestinal upset, headaches, skin reactions, and dizziness.

Gingko decreases platelet aggregation. Consequently, it may potentially increase the risk of intracranial (brain) hemorrhage. There have been reports of bleeding complications associated with the use of GBE. One human study found that ginkgo extract significantly prolonged bleeding time when given along with cilostazol (Pletal), a commonly used medication that inhibits platelet aggregation. Ginkgo use should be discontinued at least 36 hours prior to surgery due to the risk of bleeding complications. ALWAYS consult with your physician prior to taking any new medication or supplementation.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using ginkgo biloba. Do not ingest ginkgo biloba fruit or seed.

Do NOT take ginkgo if you are taking any of the following medications: anticonvulsant medications, antidepressant medications, antihypertensive medications, blood-thinning medications, blood sugar lowering medications, Cylosporine, thiazide diuretics, and Trazodone.

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