This ancient Chinese herb is an extract made from the
leaf of the Ginkgo tree. It is the most well-documented
plant extract used to support brain function - there
are more than 1,000 studies of Ginkgo Biloba from all
over the world. The consensus is that Ginkgo does help
many people improve a variety of brain functions. It
has been shown to minimize age-related memory problems
(affecting learning, short-term memory, and recall),
concentration problems, and absentmindedness. It may
also help ease dizziness and vertigo, which often accompany
forgetfulness, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
A 1995 study found that high doses of Ginkgo helped
Alzheimer's patients as well. Another very rigorous
study published in 1997 in the Journal of the American
Medical Association duplicated these results: Patients
who took Ginkgo for one month enjoyed improved memory
and attention span; this improvement was even more noticeable
when patients took the herb for three months. However,
many experts believe its more significant contribution
may be as a preventer of cognitive decline than as a
treatment. Ginkgo is very popular in Germany and France,
where more than 10 million prescriptions are written
every year; in the United States it is available without
a prescription.
Ginkgo seems to accomplish its many miracles in several
ways. In the first place, it increases the circulation
of blood to the brain, which improves the supply of
oxygen, nutrients, and glucose. This enables neurons
to create the energy and other chemical reactions you
need to think and remember. It also boosts circulation
to the inner ear, thus explaining its power to help
heal tinnitus and dizziness, a malfunction of the nerves
in the ear. In the second place, Ginkgo protects against
free-radical damage and reduces inflammation. This further
improves circulation by keeping your cardiovascular
system in shape, and also protects the nerve cells themselves.
It is recommended that you take an extract standardized
to 24 percent flavoneglycosides and 6 percent terpenelactones,
or capsules of the dried herb. For prevention take 40
mg of standardized extract, or 120 mg of capsules daily,
in divided doses. You may take up to three times this
dose if you have mild to moderate symptoms. Some people
notice an improvement within two to three weeks of beginning
treatment, but, in most cases, you need to take Ginkgo
for at least three months before you enjoy the full
benefits.
Gingko biloba is essentially devoid of any serious side
effects. Some people have reported mild headaches for
a day or two when starting the herb, and some people
have reported mild stomach upset.
Do not take Ginkgo if you are on a blood-thinning medication,
including aspirin or ibuprofen, because Ginkgo can add
to the blood-thinning effect. For the same reason, avoid
taking Ginkgo for two weeks prior to any surgery, including
oral surgery.
Ginko is a powerful medicinal
plant, proven to aid memory function.
