Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba trees are one of Earth’s oldest species. Fossilized ginkgo trees have been found that date back 150 to 200 million years. Ginkgo biloba trees are native to China and have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries and has become one of the most researched herbs used in alternative herbal medicine.

Reported health benefits of Ginkgo biloba include:

Memory Enhancement – Ginkgo helps to increase blood flow to the brain, especially in elderly adults. Ginkgo has become important in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Brain Function – Ginkgo has also been found to improve general cognitive functions such as problem solving, learning, performance of regular daily activities and social behavior. Improved brain function may be the result of increased blood flow to the brain.

Flavonoids – Chemical elements known as flavonoids (glycosides and ginkgolides) are responsible for increasing blood flow and improving overall network of blood vessels. The increased flow of oxygen and nutrients helps control inflammation and asthma. Ginkgo biloba leaf extract contains flavonoids and terpenoids these are extremely powerful antioxidants. These compounds eliminate free radicals; these are unstable molecules that can damage cell membranes down to DNA level.

Antioxidants – Ginkgo biloba acts as an antioxidant and “fights” free radicals formed in the body. Antioxidants also protect the cardiovascular and central nervous system (CNS). The combined effect of improved circulation and antioxidants is believed to help reduce the effects of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, menopause and slows the aging process.

Fertility – Ginkgo is thought to improve sexual performance as well as increase fertility and increased sperm production. Improved sexual performance may be directly related to increased blood flow to sex organs of both gendres.

Improved Blood Flow – Ginkgo increases the circumference and number of capillaries, the tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs. This effect on small capillaries becomes extremely important when you consider its effect on cardiovascular insufficiency. Poor blood flow is the cause of another group of diseases called peripheral arterial occlusive diseases, a condition where the blood flow to the small arteries is restricted. The symptoms may include painful walking or Raynaud’s disease, a condition in which your extremities (fingers, nose, ears and toes) feel cold and numb.

Improved Vision – Ginkgo biloba also improves blood flow to the retina and slows retinal deterioration causing an overall improvement in visual acuity. Ginkgo is increasingly used in the treatment of glaucoma.

Precautions – While ginkgo biloba is an herbal medicine with many benefits, it should not be combined with antidepressants. Additionally, those taking prescriptions for blood clotting disorders should avoid taking ginkgo biloba as it may increase the effect of prescribed medication.