Gingko Biloba (sometimes also spelled ginko biloba) is a tree that has grown in China for over 200 million years. Today the gingko biloba tree is found in most countries. The medicinal part of the gingko biloba is taken from the tree’s leaves. Though gingko biloba has long been a staple in the practice of Chinese herbal medicine, it has only been in recent years that its popularity has caught on in the Western world.
You are most likely to have heard gingko biloba touted as a “smart drug” that boosts our memories. Though it has been shown to be useful in combating the memory loss that often accompanies aging, the extent of its “smart drug” properties are not known.
1) Gingko biloba has been shown to work as an antioxidant.
2) The intake of gingko biloba can have positive effects on the central nerve and circulatory systems.
3) Gingko biloba increases blood flow to the brain.
4) Additional oxygen and blood glucose are delivered to the nerve cells as a result of gingko biloba intake.
5) Gingko biloba helps to maintain healthy cells.
6) The progression of Alzheimer’s disease may be slowed by gingko biloba.
7) Especially in older people, gingko biloba can help to lessen the effects of depression.
8) Gingko biloba may act to slow the pace of macular degeneration.
9) As a treatment for the poor vision than accompanies cataracts, gingko biloba may be helpful.
10) The extract of gingko biloba shows promise in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Along with the features listed above, gingko biloba is thought to provide medicinal aid for a wide range of conditions. For example, because it promotes better circulation gingko might be useful in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy (damage from poor circulation). gingko might also help prevent the eye damage that can follow diabetes.
In China gingko biloba has long been used to treat asthma. Gingko is thought to cut down the wheezing and airway spasms suffered by asthma sufferers. And, again because of gingko’s positive influence in circulation, gingko may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
It is thought to take up to 12 weeks to notice the effects of gingko biloba. Gingko is known to be a safe substance and is available to take in powder, liquid, capsule, tincture, or tablet form.
Copyright © Dennis Becker, 2004.
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