What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo biloba was initially used by the Chinese for many therapeutic purposes and then moved to the rest of the world.
These herbs have been around for thousands of years; it's one of the oldest tree species in the world. Some trees in China are said to be over 2500 years old.
Ginkgo biloba is a wonderful adaptogen that is included in many medicinal and therapeutic products, and it is now present in the form of tablets taken orally or in the form of a herbal drink such as tea.
Ginkgo Biloba Benefits
1 - Anti-inflammation Effect
When an injury or an invasion by a foreign substance attacks the body, the immune system releases many components that fight it and heal the area of injury inside the body.
These steps result in inflammatory reactions, which are among the primary responses within the body to address any source that might harm it.
Many chronic diseases cause it to be stimulated within the body, even if there is no risk to its health. With time, multiple inflammatory reactions cause permanent damage to the body’s genetic material and tissues.
Studies and scientific research conducted over the years have proven that Ginkgo Biloba can reduce inflammation in many diseases in both animal and human cells. Among health conditions are heart disease, arthritis, stroke, and irritable bowel disease. (1)
2 - Reduces symptoms of psychiatric disorders and dementia
Many scientific studies have shown that Ginkgo Biloba effectively mitigates the symptoms of mental disorders, especially the ones associated with dementia.
The studies demonstrated a significant decrease in the percentage of cognitive decline among people with dementia when they used Ginkgo Biloba for 24 weeks. (2)
These positive results are due to Ginkgo’s role in improving blood flow to the brain, especially related to vascular types of dementia.
3 - Improves brain function
Research has shown that Ginkgo Biloba enhances brain function, improves memory, and focus.
This is related to Ginkgo extract EGb 76, which contains a high level of flavonoids and terpenoids, which improves memory and cognitive function.
A study of 18 older men and women (age 60 years) treated by Ginkgo found that it improved the speed of information processing in dual-coding tests significantly. (3)
4 - Treats headaches and migraines
Because of its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, Ginkgo can treat headaches.
In fact, this was the primary and traditional use of Ginkgo Biloba in Chinese medicine. (4)
If the headache is caused by extreme stress, then Ginkgo can help, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidants effects.
Also, if the headache is related to constricted blood vessels, Ginkgo’s ability to dilate blood vessels can help to relieve the symptoms.
5 - Can treat impotence
Ginkgo Biloba help regulate hormones and improve the production of serotonin in the brain, which is connected to libido.
Also, Ginkgo increases circulation to the reproductive organs, which can help improve fertility and lead to a successful pregnancy.
One study evaluated the use of Ginkgo to increase sexual desire in women who were undergoing sexual psychotherapy. (5)
Side effects
Ginkgo Biloba is considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate doses. Just like any other supplement, it’s essential to consult your doctor first.
Conclusion
With proven healing properties, Ginkgo Biloba is an excellent brain food and memory enhancer, it has been used for centuries to help with several ailments.
It improves blood circulation and acts as an antioxidant to slow down Alzheimer’s disease.
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References
(1)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758353/
(2)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28931444
(3)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12404671
