Ginkgo
(Ginkgo biloba)
Ginkgo is one of the oldest living species on earth and has a deep family history dating back roughly 200 million years. This species is a relative newcomer to the herbal medicine scene and its first thorough study was conducted in 1997. It studies went on to find that Gingko helps improve the short-term memory of early diagnosed Alzheimer disease. The researchers concluded that this herb is relatively safe when taken appropriately and that it improved overall cognitive performance. Ginkgo has a mild blood thinning effect and helps overall cerebral circulation carrying vital oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Today Ginkgo is used liberally to improve memory, concentration, mental alertness, very mild mood disorders and as a preliminary and lifelong supplement against Alzheimer's.
Constituents.
Several key flavonoids including quercetin,
kaempferol, and isorhamnetine. Also contains sufficient amounts of
glycosides, non-flavonoid terpenes, carotenoids, and ginkolides A, B
and C.
Parts Used
Western herbal medicine uses the leaves either cut
or whole and Eastern (Chinese) herbal medicine utilize the fruit,
however the fruit is mildly toxic and applied for different ailments
other than those described here. It is best to stick with the
leaves.
Typical preparations.
Liquid herbal extract, dried leaf tea
infusion, herbal capsules (non-standardized) and a few fresh leaves
in drinks or smoothies comes recommended.
Summary
Research has shown that it is safe in controlled
environments and readily available across all international markets.
The Gingko tree is a hearty species and it is recommended that one
grows their own and utilize fresh picked leaves in early fall just
when the colors begin to change golden.
Precautions
In isolated cases it has reportedly caused
gastrointestinal upset. Ginkgo is a blood-thinning herb and it is
not recommend to be taken while on blood thinning medications. Fruit
is mildly toxic.
