10 Impressive Benefits Of Ginkgo Biloba
The unique health benefits of ginkgo include its ability to improve cognition, treat Alzheimer’s and dementia, relieve depression, and boost circulation. Use of ginkgo helps lower blood pressure, boost vision and heart health, alleviate pain, protect the nervous system, prevent cancer, and delay aging.
It is also used to reduce the symptoms of PMS, erectile dysfunction, asthma, hemorrhoids, altitude sickness, tinnitus, vertigo, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.
What Is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo extract (GBE) is derived from the ancient ginkgo biloba tree (also known as maidenhair tree) and has many [2] herbal uses. For more than 270 million years, ginkgo biloba has managed to survive and remains only mildly endangered. Due to the vast range of medicinal qualities, and the importance of research on the evolution of plants, ginkgo biloba trees are widely protected around the world.
Ginkgo nuts, found inside ginkgo seeds, are eaten in some cultures as delicacies, particularly for Chinese New Year, but the most common use of ginkgo is to make an herbal supplement from extracts of the seeds and leaves.
Nutrition Facts Of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, terpenoids, and other organic chemicals from which the extensive list of ginkgo health benefits are derived.
Health Benefits Of Ginkgo Biloba
Let us look at some of the most important health benefits in detail:
Reduces Tinnitus
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), when monitored in appropriate dosages, can be effective in reducing tinnitus. Ringing in the ears is a symptom of many underlying issues, including circulatory disorders. Ginkgo contains [26] antioxidants and it promotes circulation. The flavonoids and terpenoids in it protect the nerves, heart muscles, and blood vessels from free radicals, thereby preventing the phantom noises that irritate the ear.
Prevents Alzheimer’s & Dementia
Ginkgo relieves those suffering from cognitive disorders [5] such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. There have been measurable improvements in the cognitive ability and activity, primarily due to the antioxidant compounds in GBE, including terpenoids and flavonoids. These components stimulate neural activity and keep cognitive pathways fresh and clear of amyloid plaque. They also aid in reducing the symptoms of autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.
Increases Cognitive Abilities
Studies suggest that ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has an ability [4] to increase memory and retention, boost focus, and stimulate creative thinking. The controversy, of course, stems from whether this is a placebo effect, since the medicinal benefits of this old plant are commonly known, but millions of people around the world turn to GBE for a brain boost. It also helps relieves the symptoms of schizophrenia. Indeed an amazing herb!
Regulates Blood Flow
Research [16] has shown that ginkgo biloba extract is able to increase blood vessel dilation and stimulate blood flow to extremities in the body, including the skin and essential organs, properly oxygenating the entire body and boosting energy and strength. This increase in blood flow also helps those who suffer from claudication or poor circulation, allowing them to walk longer distances without pain. It is often taken by people who suffer from gout who benefit from this anti-clotting effect and the anti-inflammatory properties.
Treats Multiple Sclerosis
Ginkgo extract (GBE) is very beneficial for people suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). A study [27] conducted on 22 people showed positive results and GBE reduced symptoms of MS including fatigue. The immune system attacks the protective covering of the nerve cells in this disease. This damage interrupts the ability of the nervous system to communicate with other parts of the body, resulting in many disorders.
Prevents Altitude Sickness
Studies have confirmed that ginkgo biloba helps prevent [19] altitude sickness. Also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), this form of physical distress is normally seen in people who venture from sea level to elevations more than 2000 meters.
Improves Vision
The second most common reason for using ginkgo biloba is its powerful effect on vision. The antioxidants present [13] in ginkgo help keep the ocular system clear of oxidative stress, thereby preventing macular degeneration and cataracts. Also, for people who suffer from glaucoma and other vision defects, GBE has actually shown to improve vision and increase long-distance sight capacity.
Pain Management
There are mild analgesic qualities [15] of ginkgo biloba, likely resulting from anti-inflammatory properties in the organic compounds. In other words, when inflammation decreases, so does the pain it causes. This makes it a popular option for people recovering from injuries or wounds, as well as those who are suffering from chronic headaches.
Treats Depression
If you are suffering [3] from depression or chronic mood swings, ginkgo biloba can aid in balancing the hormonal levels and boosting your mood. The most promising results were seen in elderly people, particularly those suffering from depression as a result of cognitive difficulties. Recent research on younger people, suffering from depression, also showed positive results.
Treats Social Anxiety Disorder
Ginkgo also aids in treating social anxiety disorder due to the presence of beneficial compounds such as terpenoids and flavonoids.
Relieves Vertigo
A research [23] on gingko has stated that GBE extends its benefits to treating the symptoms of vertigo. Also known as dizziness, vertigo is a condition where one feels that the surroundings are moving when in reality they are stationary. The ginkgolides and bilobides, which are the unique constituents of this herb, are responsible for reducing the effects of vertigo.
Relieves Pre-menstrual Syndrome
Research [25] has shown ginkgo biloba to be effective in treating the pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). It drives away headaches, relieves anxiety and fatigue, and also reduces the muscle pain which follows the duration of menstruation. Ginkgo is also very beneficial in improving the mood of women affected by PMS.
Treats Erectile Dysfunction
Ginkgo can dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation to all the parts of the body, including the genitals, which eventually helps improve the reproductive health. It has positive effects on maintaining [21] the hormonal balance through proper serotonin levels, thereby decreasing the reasons that cause erectile dysfunction. It improves sexual health by increasing the libido.
Relieves Asthma
Ginkgo lowers inflammation because [22] of its antioxidant properties and therefore, has positive effects on nerve functioning. People who have used it have reported an ease in breathing and have witnessed lesser symptoms of asthma.
Treats Fibromyalgia
Studies [20] have shown that ginkgo biloba extract, when combined with a chemical compound coenzyme Q10, which is similar to vitamins, helps treat fibromyalgia. This disease is characterized by widespread muscle pain, accompanied by memory loss, irregular sleep, and fatigue. GBE is known to lessen these symptoms effectively.
Heart Health
Ginkgo biloba extract has been linked [6] to lower blood pressure and an elimination of blood clots throughout the cardiovascular system. These two effects, when combined, can be a major boost to heart health. Dilating blood vessels reduces the strain on the heart, while the anti-clotting capability significantly reduces your chances of suffering from a heart attack or stroke.
Cancer Prevention
The high level [14] of antioxidants found in ginkgo biloba, including the rich variety of terpenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenolic compounds, all combine to eliminate free radicals throughout the body. With a diverse range of antioxidants, ginkgo biloba can keep the entire body protected from chronic diseases, most notably cancer and heart diseases because free radicals weaken the blood vessel walls of the cardiovascular system.
Anti-aging Property
One of the most “pop culture [8]” uses of ginkgo biloba is as an anti-aging secret. While many of the claims are a bit exaggerated, the antioxidants in GBE do help the skin remain tight and healthy, slowing the appearance of wrinkles and other age spots, as well as helping speed up wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars.
Prevents Nervous Disorders
Ginkgo biloba exerts a positive influence on the nervous system by speeding up reaction time and lowering [7] your chances of nervous disorders. Also, reduction in symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Raynaud’s disease have both been linked to ginkgo biloba consumption.
Reduces Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Ginkgo biloba is effective in reducing acute pain caused [17] by hemorrhoids. It also relieves the symptoms of swelling and bleeding, which happen because [18] of the increased pressure on the veins of the rectum.
Ginkgo Biloba Dosage
Ginkgo biloba is available in various forms which include tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and dried leaves for teas.
Research [11] has shown that 120 mg – 240 mg of ginkgo per day is safe for consumption [12] provided taken in divided doses. However, it can be gradually increased after consulting a doctor.
Ginkgo Biloba Side Effects
There are some side effects that accompany [9] this beneficial herb. The list is as follows:
Dizziness
Headaches
Constipation
Stomach upset
Allergies
Allergic reactions to ginkgo biloba are moderately common due to the presence [10] of ginkgolic acids, which are similar to those found in cashews or poison ivy.
Risks
Use of Ginkgo biloba is not recommended in the following conditions:
Pregnancy & menstruation: Avoid use during pregnancy and menstruation as ginkgo is anticoagulant in nature. Also, avoid use if suffering from blood disorders that don’t allow the blood to coagulate.
Surgery: Avoid using ginkgo if you have undergone a surgery or planning for one.
Sensitive skin: People with sensitive skin should try this only after consulting their doctor.
Seizure: If you have a history of seizures, be careful while using ginkgo.
SSRI: People administering antidepressants such as SSRIs should consult their doctor before including ginkgo in their diet.
Origin of Ginkgo
Ginkgo tree is the last extant branch of the Ginkgophyta division. It is native to China and is found there primarily, as it is difficult to produce saplings of the trees, and some ginkgo trees are over 2,500 years old.
Note: Do not consume the leaves and seeds of the tree directly. Be careful when first using ginkgo biloba and always discuss the potential risk factors with a medical professional before adding this powerful herbal supplement to your regimen.
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