Ginkgo Biloba

An Ancient Modern Remedy

Ginkgo Biloba is an ancient herbal remedy - maybe the earliest known. The Chinese used it to treat lung disorders. Now it is one of the most popular herbal supplements taken.

Ginkgo biloba acts on the blood vessels, increasing blood flow. It acts like an anticoagulant, meaning that blood is delivered more efficiently, so that the body can more easily combat any damage done to it. It helps fight off hardening of the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

It also helps with circulation throughout the body and has been shown to be effective in aiding people with painful leg cramps due to arterial narrowing.

Additionally ginkgo biloba can help ease dizziness, migraine headaches and ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus.

It is most widely known as a way to improve memory and alertness, probably because it increases blood flow to the brain. It also helps improve communication skills and mobility. Since many of these functions of the body deteriorate as we get older, this herb is a powerful anti aging treatment.

Ginkgo biloba is also an antioxidant so that it helps combat free radicals as it stimulates blood flow.

Because it is such a powerful anticoagulant, it should not be taken with aspirin or other anticoagulants. If you are taking ginkgo biloba, make sure to let your doctor know, especially if you have heart, circulation or bleeding problems.

Also you should not use the herb for more than several months at a time, taking a month or so off from it in between.

There have been quality issues with the supplement, so if you plan to purchase ginkgo biloba, make sure the label reads that the product contains 24% ginkgo flavone glycosides (antioxidants) and 6% terpene lactones (the ingredients that improve brain function).

This herb has relatively few side effects and the recommend dosage is 80 to 150 mg. per day.

This article is for informational purposes only. It does not purport to offer medical advice.