Ginkgo biloba health benefits

 

Ginkgo biloba provides numerous health advantages. It is frequently used to treat mental health issues, Alzheimer's disease, and weariness. For almost 1,000 years, it has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. It first appeared on the Western cultural scene a few centuries ago, but has gained prominence in recent decades.

Ginkgo biloba Applications

Ginkgo is used as a herbal treatment to cure a variety of ailments. It is perhaps most known for its use as a therapy for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and weariness. It is also used to treat the following conditions:

• depression and anxiety
• schizophrenia
• inadequate brain blood flow
• blood pressure issues
• high altitude illness
• erection problems
• asthma\sneuropathy\scancer
• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• hyperactivity disorder with attention deficit (ADHD)
• age-related macular degeneration

Ginkgo, like many natural treatments, has not been thoroughly researched for many of the illnesses for which it is utilized.

Ginkgo biloba health benefits

The health advantages of ginkgo are assumed to be due to its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. It may also enhance blood flow and influence how neurotransmitters in the brain function.

Some studies back up ginkgo's usefulness. Other research is conflicting or inconclusive. The findings of the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) studyTrusted Source were published in 2008. The researchers wanted to see if ginkgo may help prevent all types of dementia, including Alzheimer's. It also investigated the effects of ginkgo on:

• general cognitive deterioration
• high blood pressure
• cardiovascular disease and stroke incidence
• overall mortality rate
• functional impairment

The GEM study, which was the largest of its kind to date, tracked 3,069 patients aged 75 and up for 6 to 7 years. Researchers discovered no benefit of ginkgo or a placebo on preventing dementia and Alzheimer's disease in trial participants. In addition, a 2012 meta-analysis Ginkgo has no favorable benefits on cognitive performance in healthy persons, according to Trusted Source.

Nonetheless, a 2014 study found that ginkgo supplementation may benefit those who already have Alzheimer's and are on cholinesterase inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat the condition.

The GEM study also discovered that ginkgo does not lower high blood pressureTrusted Source. There was no indication that ginkgo reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke. However, it may minimize the risk of peripheral artery disease caused by inadequate blood circulation.

Ginkgo can be used as an adjuvant therapy for schizophrenia, according to a 2013 comprehensive review. Ginkgo appeared to "had a good influence on positive psychotic symptoms" in persons with persistent schizophrenia who took antipsychotic medication, according to the researchers.

Researchers in that study also discovered good outcomes for ADHD, autism, and generalized anxiety disorder, although they cautioned that additional research is needed.

An older review of evidence study found that ginkgo may help with erectile dysfunction induced by antidepressant drugs. Ginkgo, according to researchers, enhances the availability of nitric oxide gas, which aids in improving blood flow to the penis.

According to a 2009 study, ginkgo may help improve premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. Participants in the trial who took either ginkgo or a placebo reported a reduction in symptoms. Those who took ginkgo had substantially more relief.

Ginkgo biloba dangers

Ginkgo is generally safe to take in moderation for healthy persons for up to six months. Severe side effects are uncommon. Nonetheless, the FDA does not regulate ginkgo and other over-the-counter herbal supplements as closely as it does other medications. As a result, it's difficult to know exactly what's in the ginkgo you buy. Only purchase supplements from brands you know and trust.

Some people may develop an allergic reaction to ginkgo. If you are allergic to urushiols, an oily substance found in poison ivy, sumac, poison oak, and mango rind, your risk may be increased.

Ginkgo may cause more bleeding. If you have a bleeding disorder, use drugs, or use other herbs that may raise your risk of bleeding, avoid using ginkgo. Stop taking ginkgo at least two weeks before a surgical operation to reduce your risk of bleeding.

If you are taking any drugs that affect coagulation, avoid using ginkgo. It should not be taken if you are also taking NSAIDS such as ibuprofen. Ginkgo has potentially harmful side effects. If you are taking medication, inform your doctor of the dose you intend to take.

Ginkgo may help to reduce blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or hypoglycemia, or if you use other drugs or herbs that lower blood sugar, use with caution.

Ginkgo seeds and untreated ginkgo leaves are poisonous.

If you are pregnant, avoid using ginkgo due to the risk of bleeding. Ginkgo has not been investigated in pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children.

Other potential ginkgo side effects include:

• headache
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• nausea
• palpitations in the heart
• dizziness
• rash

Takeaway

Ginkgo was once thought to be a miracle cure for age-related memory loss and other health problems. However, research to date does not back up much of the enthusiasm.

The majority of ginkgo evidence is anecdotal or decades old. Nonetheless, studies have indicated that ginkgo may help treat several common mental health disorders, improve sexual function, and improve blood flow to the peripheral arteries.

Do not use ginkgo to replace an existing medicine or to treat a serious ailment without first visiting your doctor.