Ginkgo Biloba

The Ginkgo biloba tree knows a thing or two about aging..

As one of the oldest and longest lived tree species – each tree can live for as long as one thousand years - its only fitting that Ginkgo Biloba should contribute to anti-aging.  Ginkgo biloba has been used by native cultures for many years.  The distinctly shaped leaves contain flavonoids and turpenoids, both purported to have numerous health benefits.

 

Benefits of Ginkgo biloba

While most people are aware of the brain-related benefits, perhaps you’d like a refresher list of how ginkgo biloba can help you:

• Enhances memory
• Increases focus
• Helps those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Aids circulation and blood flow to the legs
• Can prevent eye problems concerning the retina
  Improves depression
• Reduces high blood pressure
• Reduces incidence of impotence
   

Where’s the evidence? 

While further research is needed, current studies have found that the use of ginkgo biloba can improve memory function and cognitive abilities significantly more than a placebo could. 

Also, ginkgo biloba has been shown to help those withpainful blood flow issues in their legs, allowing them to walk thirty-four meters further than those that had taken a placebo.

How can you take Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba can be taken in a number of forms – extract, tincture, pills, and capsules.  However, to be sure that you are getting the highest concentration of the plant, you might want to consider the extract and place it in hot water to make a soothing tea.

How much is enough?

The extract of ginkgo biloba is considered safe and effective in doses of 120mg each day, divided into one or two doses, but you could also take the tincture in 2-4mL doses as well.

A good supplement will contain at least 100mg of the plant.

 

Any warnings? 

Ginkgo biloba has not been related to any overdose issues, but there are some side effects that have occasionally been experienced, including: headache, skin reaction and stomach upset.  These are usually connected with excessive dosages much higher than those quoted as an acceptable amount. 

If you are taking blood thinning drugs or anti-convulsants you may be advised not to take ginkgo biloba and it is generally wise for anyone who takes prescription medication of any sort to discuss your plans for supplementing your diet before ordering your pills.