Gingko Biloba benefits

Gingko Biloba, also known as the Maidenhair Tree, is indigenous to China, Japan, and Korea. The height of the tree can exceed 100 feet and lifespan can be as much as 1,000 years.

Gingko Biloba is popular in the United States as a memory enhancer or booster. The leaves, both dried and fresh, and the seeds are generally used as medicinal components. Gingko contains two different active classes of ingredients. The first, ginkgo flavone glycoside, inhibits platelet-activation, in other words it prevents platelets from becoming sticky. The second, bioflavonoids, act as free radical scavengers.

Because the active ingredients in Ginkgo Biloba prevents platelets from sticking together and bonds free radicals together preventing them from attacking healthy molecules, Gingko Biloba is effective in managing memory disorders, dementia, circulatory problems, tinnitus, and asthma. The combinations of these active ingredients also help to support the brain and central nervous system.

Numerous studies have been conducted on the pharmacological actions of Ginkgo Biloba.

Some of the many proven benefits of gingko biloba are increased blood circulation in the body, protection of nerve cells and regeneration of damaged nerves.

The improvement in circulation is evident in both arteries (large vessels) and capillaries (small vessels). Since oxygen exchange takes place in the capillaries, the better the circulation, the more efficient the oxygen exchange.

Gingko Biloba is crucial in protecting the brain and central nervous system which are susceptible to attacks by free radicals. The main function of the active ingredient bioflavonoid is to chemically bond free radicals preventing them from attacking the body. Free radicals are formed when weak bonds of molecules split leaving a bond with an odd number of electrons. These free radicals scour the body attacking other compounds in an attempt to steal one of their electrons. The difference between a stable bond and a free radical (an unstable bond) is the number of electrons. Stable bonds have an even number of electrons while unstable bonds possess an odd number of electrons. If a stable bond loses an electron, it becomes a free radical.

It is widely accepted by scientists that disorders associated with aging are the result of attacks by free radicals. Thousands of patients have participated in numerous studies attesting to the effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba’s increased blood flow in arteries, veins and capillaries. Since circulation to the brain is increased, there is a positive relationship with Ginkgo Biloba and it’s ability to improve mental performance,

Small studies have indicated that Gingko inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrin, serotonin, dopamine and acetylcholine neurotransmitters in the brain. This indicates that Gingko may be effective in treating depression.

The flavonoids found in Gingko have been proven in clinical trials to help preserve the eye site of those affected with macular degeneration as well as other age-related conditions. In Europe, Gingko is widely used to treat dementia and Alzheimer's disease

The increased blood flow experienced with Ginkgo is reputed to help with the treatment of claudication. Published studies indicate that Ginko is just as effective as the leading prescription medication in treating this condition.

The therapeutic effects of Ginko Biloba have been clinically proven over the course of many years of exhaustive research. More than 40 compounds make up Gingko Biloba and two have been identified as beneficial. Ginkgo Biloba is available in a liquid extract, tablets, and capsules. It is recommended that adults take 120 mg daily divided into three equal doses. For more serious conditions such as dementia or Alzheimers, 240 mg daily is suggested. It is important to realize the benefits of Gingko Biloba may not be seen for four to six weeks after initial dosage.

Please consult your doctor or health professional before changing your diet or before starting to take health supplements.