Ginkgo Biloba Facts
-submitted by Janet GaitorListen to this article in real audio
Facts: For more than five thousand years, Chinese herbalists have
recommended this ancient remedy for coughs, asthma, and
inflammation due to allergies. Although the Ginkgo tree dates back more than two hundred million years - some live as long as four thousand years - we are just beginning to understand its medicinal value. Ginkgo is one of the most well
researched herbs in the world. Most of the research is being done
in France and other European countries where Ginkgo is a
commonly prescribed drug.
Ginkgo exerts a positive effect on the vascular system, the body's
vast network of blood vessels that delivers blood and oxygen to
various organ systems. Recent studies of Ginkgo extract show that
it increases blood flow to the brain and lower extremities. Ginkgo has been shown to improve memory and to relieve signs of senility, probably due to the increased blood flow to the brain. It also helps prevent blood clots and has been used quite
successfully for problems related to poor circulation, such
as phlebitis (inflammation of a vein) and diabetic peripheral vascular disease.
Other studies show that patients suffering from vertigo and tinitus,
or ringing in the ears, experienced dramatic improvement after
taking Ginkgo due to increased blood flow to the inner ear. Studies also show that Ginkgo is an antioxidant, which means that it slows the formation of compounds called free radicals, which are believed to be responsible for premature aging, cancer, and other ills. The nut of the tree makes an excellent expectorant and may provide relief for asthma and allergy sufferers.
In 1988, Dr. Elias J. Corey, professor of chemistry at Harvard
University, synthesized a Ginkgo compound called ginkgolide B,
thus increasing the commercial possibilities for this herb in the
United States. Among other things, ginkgolide B is being
investigated as a potential drug to prevent the rejection of
transplanted organs. Researchers are hopeful that it may one day
spawn new drugs for asthma and toxic shock syndrome.
Long term use is believed to be safe. No known serious side
effects have been reported.
Common Use: Mental alertness; stimulates circulation to
extremities; Heart, Brain, blood, antioxidant; Alert support; Used
with tinitus, vertigo, stress, senility,and asthma.Page back on your browser or click here for MedSupport FSF
