Ginkgo biloba is a tree that has been on earth since around 150 million years ago. This ancient tree has been the focus of beauty and as a medicinal herb. Medicinal ginkgo has been in use for at least 5,000 years and probably even longer. What is certain is that modern ginkgo health benefits target memory and prevent certain signs of brain aging. The supplement is widely available for such use, but there are more historical uses for the plant. Let’s learn what they are.
Is Ginkgo Good for You?
You may have heard about ginkgo as a health supplement, but what does ginkgo do? Many clinical trials have pointed to the herb's benefits in a host of medical conditions. It has been popular in Chinese medicine for centuries and is still a component of that country's medicine practices. Possible ginkgo health benefits span such conditions as cardiovascular disease, dementia, lower extremity circulation, and Ischemic stroke.
As with any medicine, even natural varieties, it is recommended that you check with your doctor before using ginkgo. Medicinal ginkgo comes in capsules, tablets, and even teas. There have been many studies on the effects of the herb but most of its benefits are unsubstantiated. The most common use is to improve cognition and brain function and certain trials have verified the effect yet others have decried its use. There are side effects in using Ginkgo biloba. Among these are:
- Headache
- Heart Palpitations
- Gastric Upset
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dermal Allergies
What Does Ginkgo Do?
Outside of its benefits to brain function, there are other possible uses for the drug. In China, a study found that 75 percent of doctors believed the supplement had benefits in combating side effects of acute stroke.
There may be some benefit to patients with peripheral artery and cardiovascular diseases. The plant acts by increasing platelet function through its antioxidant properties and improving cell function among other actions. It does seem to have benefits in patients with lower leg pain.
The supplement has no verified benefit in treating Alzheimer's but does appear to be effective in treating some dementia patients. It acts by improving memory, language, judgment, and behavior.
Since this is a natural product and due to differences in where the tree grows and environmental fluctuations, the amount of the active components in prepared ginkgo can vary. In the U.S., the FDA has issued no clear component guidelines, but French and German companies have derived a standard formula. This recommends a product with 24% flavonoid glycosides, 6% terpene lactones, and less than 5 ppm ginkgolic acid, which can cause allergic reaction in higher amounts.
Make sure you check with a medical professional and source the supplement through reputable companies.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for educational and gardening purposes only. Before using or ingesting ANY herb or plant for medicinal purposes or otherwise, please consult a physician, medical herbalist, or other suitable professional for advice.
-
Elegant Exotics: 8 Beautiful Amaryllis Varieties That Will Brighten Any Holiday DisplayWhether red, pink, white or variegated, the right amaryllis varieties can enhance any living space, especially during the holidays. We round up eight of the most exquisite
-
Forage For Herbs: 7 Tasty And Safe Wild Herbs To Pick Close To Your Own BackyardIn addition to growing your own herbal staples, did you know there are several wild options out there that are safe and tasty – and free? Try foraging these 7 wild herbs
-
How To Get Rid Of Smelly Ginkgo Biloba FruitIt is possible to avoid the ginkgo smell with a little planning. Eliminating the odor, however, is a different story! Click here for more.
-
Feeding Ginkgo Trees: Learn About Ginkgo Fertilizer NeedsAs you might imagine, fertilizing ginkgo trees is rarely necessary and the tree is adept at managing on its own. However, you may want to feed the tree lightly if growth is slow or if leaves are pale or smaller than usual. This article will help get you started.
-
Ginkgo Water Requirements: How To Water Ginkgo TreesA ginkgo tree is a lovely ornamental or shade tree in yards. Once ginkgo trees are established, they require little maintenance and care. But considering ginkgo water requirements will help you ensure the trees in your garden are healthy and thriving. Learn more here.
-
Ginkgo Seed Propagation Guide – How To Plant Ginkgo SeedsOne of our oldest plant species, Ginkgo biloba can be propagated from cuttings, grafting or seed. The first two methods result in plants much quicker, but growing ginkgo trees from seed is an experience not to be missed. Click here for tips on planting ginkgo seeds.
-
Managing Sick Ginkgo Trees: How To Control Diseases Of Ginkgo TreesGiven how long the ginkgo trees have survived on the planet, it won’t surprise you to learn that they are generally strong and healthy. Still, ginkgo tree diseases do exist. Click here for information about the diseases of ginkgo with tips for managing sick ginkgo trees.
-
Ginkgo Insect Problems: Are Pests On Ginkgo Trees SeriousEven though there are very few bugs that prey on ginkgo trees, that doesn’t mean the species doesn’t have its share of ginkgo insect problems. So what kinds of ginkgo pests might be found on the tree? Click on the following article to learn more.
-
Common Ginkgo Cultivars: How Many Kinds Of Ginkgo Are ThereGinkgo trees are unique in that they are living fossils, largely unchanged for nearly 200 million years. In the landscape, different kinds of ginkgo can be big shade trees and attractive ornamental additions to gardens. Learn about different varieties in this article.
-
Eating Ginkgo Nuts: Information About The Fruits Of Ginkgo TreesGinkgo biloba has made something of a name for itself as a restorative for memory loss is extracted from the dried leaves. Ginkgo also produces rather odoriferous fruit. Stinky the fruit may be, but can you eat ginkgo fruit? Click this article to find out.
