| Ginkgo Biloba is one of
the oldest living tree species, dating back over 300 million years, and
individual trees can live for over 1,000 years. In China, extracts of the
fruit and leaves of the ginkgo tree have been used for over 5,000 years to treat
lung ailments such as asthma and bronchitis, and as a remedy for cardiovascular
diseases. Recently, western researchers have been studying Ginkgo biloba as a
treatment for senility, hardening of the arteries, and as a treatment for
oxygen deprivation. More than 34 human studies on Ginkgo have been published
since 1975, showing, among other things, that Ginkgo can increases the body's
production of the universal energy molecule adenosine triphosphate, commonly
called ATP. This activity has been shown to boost the brains energy metabolism
of glucose and increase electrical activity.
Scientists also discovered that Ginkgo contains an abundance
of useful compounds including the antioxidants Vitamin C and carotenoids, but it
is the flavonoid compounds collectively known as "ginkgolides" that
are the most remarkable. The Ginkgo flavonoids act specifically to dilate the
smallest segment of the circulatory system, the micro-capillaries, which has a
widespread affect on the organs, especially the brain. Researchers have also
reported that Ginkgo extracts effectively increase blood circulation and
increase oxygen levels in brain tissues. Ginkgo is also a powerful antioxidant
that prevents platelet aggregation inside arterial walls, keeping them flexible
and decreasing the formation of arteriosclerositic plaque.
Ginkgo's ability to improve blood flow has been shown in numerous studies with
the elderly, leading German researchers to study Ginkgo as a treatment for
atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease. This treatment can cause a
condition marked by decreased blood flow to the limbs caused by hardening of the
arteries. One indicator of this condition is severe pain felt in the legs when
attempting to walk even short distances, referred to as intermittent
claudication. German researchers found that treatment with Ginkgo extracts
improved circulation to the extremities and made it possible for patients
with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease to walk further with much
less pain. Ginkgo biloba extracts are relatively considered safe and free of
side effects, though taking very large doses may lead to diarrhea, nausea
and vomiting, which can be controlled by reducing the amount consumed.
Ginkgo has been used to increase the quality of blood flow to
the brain to improve memory. Especially helpful for memory loss due to stroke,
thus it is also helpful in the prevention of stroke. The herb also benefits
arteries in the legs and extremities helping relieve pain due to poor
circulation.
Ginkgo Biloba is also known as:
Maidenhair tree
|
Advertisements
Natural Health
Products
click here to read more
|