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Ginkgo Biloba

Description

Traditionally used for thousands of years by Chinese physicians, ginkgo is one of the most well-known herbs utilized today. It is the most popular prescription drug in Germany and France, where millions of prescriptions are filled each year. Ginkgo belongs to the world's oldest tree species. Its leaves are high in phytochemically active ingredients and account for the reported benefits of the herb; two of the most active ingredients in ginkgo are glycosides and terpenes. All components of ginkgo are synergistic, however, as numerous clinical trials have proven that the total extract is far more potent than single ingredients (Funfgeld EW (ed): Rokan (Ginkgo biloba). Recent Results in pharmacology and clinic. Springer-Verlag, New York, 1988)

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

Clinical applications include: - Alzheimer’s - Asthma - Vascular insufficiency - Antioxidant - Cerebral vascular insufficiency - Stroke - Memory - Macular degeneration - Diabetic retinopathy - Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - Impotence - Depression - Inner ear dysfunction - Dementia - Raynaud’s - Circulation problems

Clinical Applications/Research

Ginkgo has profound effects on the blood, circulation, oxygen delivery, and various other factors. Ginkgo biloba extract improves blood supply, cerebral (brain) blood flow (effect on memory), oxygen and glucose utilization. It is a potent inhibitor of a substance known as platelet-activating factor (PAF). PAF is active in platelet clumping, vascular permeability, bronchoconstriction, and inflammatory/allergic processes. Ginkgo dilates blood vessels by releasing a vessel-relaxing factor, and by releasing prostacyclin (a vasodilating hormone-like substance). Ginkgo increases the rate at which information is transmitted at the nerve cell level (Gessner B & Klasser M. Arzneimittel-Forsch 1985;35:1459-1465). The anti-clumping effect on platelets may offer protection against stroke. Double-blind studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of ginkgo in macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, and ginkgo may also be helpful in Alzheimer’s, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), peripheral arterial insufficiency (intermittent claudication), depression, vertigo, memory loss, and mental performance. Other applications include asthma, PMS, and impotence. Ginkgo also has antioxidant properties.

Suggested Dosage

40-80 mg three times daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Ginkgo biloba has an excellent safety profile. In studies which involved over 9,772 patients, minor gastro-intestinal discomfort only occurred in 21 cases, headache in seven cases, and dizziness in six cases (Funfgeld EW (ed): Rokan (Ginkgo biloba). Recent Results in pharmacology and clinic. Springer-Verlag, New York, 1988). Caution should be used when anticoagulant drugs are being used, because ginkgo is an effective anticoagulant.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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