Ginko Biloba
| Common Names: |
Maidenhair tree |
| Parts used and where grown: |
Ginkgo biloba is the world’s longest living species of tree; individual trees live as long as 1,000 years. Ginkgo grows most prominently in the southern and eastern US and in China. The leaves of the tree are used. |
| In what conditions might ginkgo biloba be supportive? |
- Alzheimer's disease
- atherosclerosis
- cerebrovascular insufficiency
- congestive heart failure
- depression
- diabetes
- impotence / infertilty male
|
- intermittent claudication
- macular degeneration
- migraine headaches
- Raynaud's phenomenon
- multiple sclerosis
- retinopathy
- tinnitus
|
| Historical or traditional use: |
Medicinal use of ginkgo can be traced back almost 5,000 years in Chinese herbal medicine. It was recommended for respiratory tract ailments as well as memory loss in the elderly. |
| Active constituents: |
The medical benefits of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) rely on the proper balance of two groups of active components: the ginkgo flavone glycosides and the terpene lactones. The 24% ginkgo flavone glycoside designation on GBE labels indicates the carefully measured balance of bioflavonoids. These bioflavonoids are primarily responsible for GBE’s antioxidant activity and ability to inhibit platelet aggregation (stickiness). These two actions may help GBE prevent circulatory diseases such as atherosclerosis, and support the brain and central nervous system.1
The unique terpene lactone components found in GBE, known as ginkgolides and bilobalide, increase circulation to the brain and other parts of the body as well as exert a protective effect on nerve cells. Ginkgolides may improve circulation and inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF). Bilobalide protects the cells of the nervous system.2Recent animal studies indicate that bilobalide may help regenerate damaged nerve cells.3 |
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