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Definition
Ginkgo biloba is an ancient Chinese tree whose leaves are used medicinally.
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Description
The Ginkgo tree is the world's oldest tree dating back about 200 million years. As far back as 1436 the extract from this tree had been used by the Chinese to treat asthma, chilblains (an inflammation caused by exposure to cold) and swellings.
In Germany Ginkgo is currently used by some for the treatment of cerebral dysfunction with the following symptoms: difficulty in memory, dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), headaches, and emotional instability coupled with anxiety. Additionally, it has been used in Germany for the treatment of hearing loss due to cervical syndrome and peripheral arterial circulatory disturbances.
Western herbalists believe that ginkgo has demonstrated remarkable pharmacological actions on different parts of the circulatory and nervous system (arteries, capillaries, veins and heart). Its effects include increased energy, improved glucose utilization, inhibition of platelet aggregation, promotion of radical scavenging activity, increased blood flow to the brain and improved nerve signal transmission.
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Warning
Patients who self-medicate with herbs for preventive and therapeutic purposes may assume that these products are safe because they are "natural," but some products cause adverse effects or have the potential to interact with prescription medications.
Please check with your physician or other reliable source for information tailored to your needs.
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Clinical Studies
Some clinical studies have examined the following:
- Ginkgo biloba extract may lessen many old age-related complaints such as dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), short-term memory loss and cramping in the legs due to poor circulation, and phlebitis.
- In the treatment of depression, it is noted that ginkgo biloba extract has been effective in treating insufficient blood and oxygen supply in the brain associated with the common symptoms of depression.
- Ginkgo biloba extract also has been found to increase the penile blood flow in men with impotence problems.
- Herbalists believe that ginkgo may interfere with the development of blood clots in the heart causing heart attacks and strokes, legs and feet causing phlebitis and leg ulcers.
- Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve brain circulation and glucose utilization and increase mental capacity in patients showing signs of senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Clinical studies are currently being done to determine the effectiveness of ginkgo biloba on treating conditions such as vertigo, cerebral atherosclerosis, diabetic vascular disease, Raynaud's syndrome, angina pectoris and congestive heart failure.
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Preparation and Side-Effects
Ginkgo leaves are available in dry bulk, capsules, or tincture and marketed under the name of Ginkgo Power, Ginkgold and Super Ginkgo. Ginkgo can cause irritability, restlessness, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Ginkgo is not recommended for children, people with clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or nursing.
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Questions to Ask Your Doctor
What are your views on using alternative treatment methods such as ginkgo biloba?
What are the side effects?
What type of preparation (dry bulk, capsules, or tincture) do you recommend?
What dosage?
What is the cost?
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