What Is Gingko Biloba?

I am sure, that, most of the health enthusiasts, have come across the name, ”Gingko Biloba”.

Wait. What? Yes, you heard that right. For, those of you, who are unfamiliar with this one and in case you are associating the name with some exotic dance form, then, I would ask you, to think again. Okay, you don’t need to stress yourself out. Just Relax.

Let me reveal its identity. ”Gingko Biloba” is the name given to a special kind of a herb.

Today, I will tell you everything, that, you need to know about this miracle herb. Are you ready?

History

The existence of Gingko Biloba or Maidenhair can be traced back to more than 250 million years. This species is the world’s oldest living tree and rightly called as “living fossil” by the famous naturalist Charles Darwin. Its first appearance was reported to be around the carboniferous era. During the Jurassic period, the Gingko trees were widely growing in Asia, Europe and America.

The tree had passed the test of “survival of the fittest” during the crisis period, specially at the end of cretaceous era, when the mighty dinosaurs happened to disappear.

It is amazing to know that the tree had co-existed with the extinct dinosaur species.
But gradually, there was a decline in their numbers and eventually they disappeared from North America and Europe.

Later, it was found in the temple gardens of China, delicately preserved by the Buddhists monks.
From China, the seeds were brought to Japan and Korea and from Japan, it got into Europe and later America.

Brain

Gingko is believed to have profound effects on Dementia, Alzheimer's and cerebral insufficiency.
Studies show that the herb enhances memory and focus that are essential to perform challenging tasks and boost overall cognitive functions.

The plant is enriched with compounds like terpenoids and flavonoids, which are enzymes for combating brain degeneration.

Anxiety

Gingko biloba is credited for being natural anti-depressant and thus helps in elevating mood.

Eyes

The antioxidants present in Gingko, goes a long way in protecting eyes against macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.

It improves eye-sight and hence reduces eye related disorders.

Heart

The anti-coagulant property of Gingko, prevents heart attack, by eliminating clots in the blood vessels and thereby, reduces blood pressure and inflammation.

It also improves overall circulation of the body.

Youth enhancer

The herb has shown anti-ageing properties like prevention of age-related changes like formation of wrinkles, discoloration, black patches, fine lines and keeps the skin healthy and tight.

Others

Fights symptoms of PMS, Fibromyalgia, migraines and schizophrenia.
It also improves sleep quality.

Dosage

Dosages are very specific for various disorders. In the initial days, lower dosage is recommended to avoid gastrointestinal incompatibility.

Increase, the dosage as required, with time. Please read the instructions, for prescribed dosage before ingesting.

Gingko comes in different forms like capsule, tablet, liquid extract, oil or dried leaf form. If you are fascinated with tea, you can switch to gingko biloba tea.

They are easily available in the health food stores or else, it can be ordered online.

But, make sure, to stay away from crude gingko plant parts as they are infused with highly toxic compounds, capable of causing allergic reactions.

Possible Side Effects

Although, it is quite likely to be safe and incapable of serious side-effects if taken in proper dosages, very rare cases have been reported, where, patients taking anti-coagulants along with Gingko, have suffered from bleeding.

Hence, it is advisable to avoid taking Gingko, few weeks before surgery. It is not recommended during menstruation and pregnancy.

Also, people with certain health conditions like bleeding disorders, seizures and deficiency of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), need to be very cautious.

Conclusion

It is true, that Gingko has myriad benefits, although more advanced research is essential to fully understand its biological efficacy.

Patients should consult healthcare professionals, before including Gingko as a health supplement.

They, should not, solely, rely upon the herb to cure diseases and continue taking the prescribed drugs as recommended by their medical mentors.

In case of any adverse side-effects , stop taking Gingko, with immediate effect.

Remember to avoid it during special conditions like Pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Also, Gingko is not advisable for children and hence should keep away.

If you take, necessary precautions, then Gingko will do, more good than harm.

Disclaimer

I am not a certified expert in this field. The facts are based on available research. I have no liability for the accuracy of the information provided. Hence, sole discretion is required.