Ginkgo biloba has a variety of health benefits. It is often used to treat mental issues like Alzheimer's disease and fatigue. Ancient Chinese medicine used it to treat fatigue and mental illness for around 1000 years. It popped up on the Western culture scene just a few centuries ago but has seen the spotlight in the last couple of years.
The uses of ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo is an herbal remedy to treat a range of diseases. It's most commonly used as a treatment for dementia, fatigue, and Alzheimer's disease. Other ailments it's used to treat include:
- depression and anxiety
- schizophrenia
- Insufficient blood flow to the brain
- Blood pressure issues
- altitude sickness
- erectile dysfunction
- asthma
- neuropathy
- Cancer
- premenstrual syndrome
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- macular degeneration
As with many natural remedies, Ginkgo has not been studied for all of the ailments it is used to treat.
The health benefits of ginkgo biloba include
Ginkgo's health benefits are believed to be due to its antioxidant levels and anti-inflammatory qualities. It could also improve circulation and play an important function in how neurotransmitters within the brain work.
Certain studies confirm the effectiveness of the ginkgo plant. Some research is inconsistent or inconclusive. In 2008, the results of research on the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) study were published. The study was designed to find whether ginkgo could lower the risk of developing all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The study also examined the impact of ginkgo on
- overall decline in cognitive function
- blood pressure
- the incidence of stroke and cardiovascular disease
- Overall mortality
- functional disability
This GEM study, the most extensive of its kind, followed 3,069 individuals aged 75 and over from 6 to 7 years. Researchers discovered no benefits on the prevention of dementia or Alzheimer's disease among people who either consumed the ginkgo plant or placebo. A meta-analysis from 2012 found that Ginkgo had no beneficial effects on cognitive functioning in healthy individuals.
A 2014 study revealed that ginkgo supplementation could benefit those with Alzheimer's and who are taking Cholinesterase inhibitors, the most common medication used to treat the disease.
It was found that the GEM study also revealed that Ginkgo did not reduce blood pressure. There is no evidence to suggest that Ginkgo minimizes the chance of having a heart accident or stroke. However, it may lower the risk of peripheral arterial conditions due to poor blood circulation.
According to a systematic review published in 2013, Ginkgo could be considered as an adjuvant treatment for schizophrenia. The researchers found that ginkgo appears “to provide a beneficial influence on the positive symptoms of psychosis” in patients suffering from chronic schizophrenia who are taking antipsychotic drugs.
Researchers from the study also observed positive study results for ADHD as well as autism in addition to generalized anxiety disorder. However, they also noted that more studies are needed.
In a previous review of evidence, Ginkgo could help with the erectile dysfunction that is caused by antidepressants. Research suggests that ginkgo can increase the amount of nitric oxide gas, a substance that plays a part in enhancing penis blood flow.
Ginkgo could help ease PMS symptoms. (PMS) symptoms, according to a study conducted in 2009. Participants who took either ginkgo or placebo reported a decrease in symptoms. Ginkgo users experienced significantly less relief.
Ginkgo biloba risks
Ginkgo is usually safe for healthy individuals to consume in moderate amounts for up to six months. Rarely do you experience serious adverse effects. However, indeed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate ginkgo or other herbal supplements available over the counter like other prescription drugs. It's, therefore, difficult to determine exactly what's in the ginkgo you purchase. Make sure you buy a supplement that you are confident in.
Ginkgo could trigger an allergic reaction in some people. The risk of getting it could be more incredible when you're allergic to urushiols. It's an oily resin in poison ivy, sumac poison oak, and mango rind.
Ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding. Do not take ginkgo if you suffer from a bleeding disorder or are taking medication or other herbs that can increase the chances of bleeding. To reduce the risk of bleeding, cut down on ginkgo consumption for at least 2 weeks before having surgery.
Avoid taking ginkgo if you're taking any medication that can alter the process of clotting. Also, avoid it if you're using NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen. Ginkgo may have dangerous negative side effects. If you're taking any medication, inform your doctor what dose you're planning to take.
Ginkgo can lower blood sugar levels. Be cautious if you have hypoglycemia or diabetes or if you take other medicines or herbal remedies that can also lower blood sugar levels.
Do not eat ginkgo seeds or leaves of ginkgo unprocessed. They're poisonous.
Due to the possibility of bleeding risk, avoid Ginkgo if you're expecting. Ginkgo hasn't been studied to be used in breastfeeding women, pregnant women, or children.
Other possible side effects of Ginkgo include:
- headache
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- nausea
- heart palpitations
- dizziness
- It is a rash
Takeaway
Ginkgo was touted as a miracle cure for memory loss due to age and other health issues. However, the research available to date doesn't confirm the claims.
The majority of evidence on the ginkgo plant is either anecdotal or old. However, research has demonstrated that ginkgo could slow the progress of Alzheimer's disease. It can also aid in the treatment of common mental health issues, improve sexual function, and increase blood flow to peripheral blood vessels.
Don't try to replace your existing medication with ginkgo or begin taking ginkgo for the treatment of an illness that is serious without consulting with your physician.