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Ginkgo
(Maidenhair-Tree, Ginkgo 1, Latin: Ginkgo biloba) is the extract from the
leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba Tree. The ginkgo tree thrives in full sun and
average soil. It is very resistant to infection and pollution and can grow
up to 120 feet. The small yellow fruit that falls from the female tree has
a strong rancid odor. The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species; geological
records indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 200 million years.
It was first brought to Europe in the 1700's and it is now a commonly
prescribed drug in France and Germany. It is one of the most well-researched
herbs in the world.
Ginkgo Biloba is taken as an energizer to improve
mood and alertness, as a "smart drug" to stimulate brain
function and boost memory, and as an antioxidant to slow the effects of
aging and prevent degenerative diseases. It has also been used to relieve
tension and anxiety and to restore energy.
Ginko is used in many herbal Viagraź alternative supplements to help with
increased blood flow to the genitals. Recent evidence indicates Ginkgo biloba
extract appears to be effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction caused
by the lack of blood flow to the genitals. If you are using Ginko Biloba for the
treatment of erectile dysfunction, select a product that is standardized to
contain twenty-four percent ginkgo heterosides (flavonglycosides). Take 40 to
80 mg three times a day for long-term therapy. At least twelve weeks is usually
necessary before you see results.
Ginkgo
Biloba increases the blood flow to the brain, and improves blood flow through
both major blood vessels and capillaries. It increases metabolism efficiency,
regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain (which uses
20% of the body's oxygen). It has been known to increase brain functionality,
which is beneficial to those suffering from low concentration and memory loss.
For
this reason, Ginkgo Biloba has been used in the early treatment of Alzheimer's
disease. It has been proven effective in stopping the advancement of Alzheimer's
disease and improving the mental function of elderly people. Ginkgo Biloba has
also been used by post-menopausal women with complaints of forgetfulness. It has
also been helpful in long-term therapy for stroke victims, by increasing the
blood flow to the brain.
It
is also used as a treatment for vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and a
variety of neurological disorders, circulation problems and cerebral
insufficiencies including difficulties of concentration and memory,
absentmindedness, confusion, anxiety, dizziness and headache. Benefits of
enhanced circulation in the brain include improved short and long term memory,
increased reaction time and improved mental clarity.
Standardized
ginkgo extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a common
allergen in the body. Physical stress and poor quality food can over stimulate
PAF production; in other words, blood clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause
cardiovascular disease, brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and
inflammatory diseases.
Ginkgo
also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free
radicals which are believed to contribute to premature aging and dementia.
Antioxidants also protect the eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous
system. Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the retina,
and can slow retinal deterioration resulting in an increase of visual acuity.
Ginkgo
may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to plaque associated
with the hardening of arteries, and can relax constricted blood vessels.
The
herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-related disorders such as
diabetic peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud's syndrome, hemorrhoids and
varicose veins. It can also aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and
complications from stroke and skull injuries. It also improves circulation in
the extremities relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs and chronic
arterial blockage.
Among
other things, ginkgo is being investigated as a potential treatment to prevent
the rejection of transplanted organs, as a treatment for asthma and for toxic
shock syndrome.
Pharmacology
Few
medicinal plants have been investigated as extensively as Ginkgo. While the
physiological action of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) appears to be dependent on
the flavonoid and terpenoid components, bioavailability is decreased when given
in their isolated forms. GBE exerts a protective action on cell membranes,
maintaining their integrity by several means. The flavonoids possess profound
antioxidant properties, decreasing lipid peroxidation by free radicals. In
addition, by activating the cell membrane 'sodium pump', stable intracellular
polarity is ensured.
The
ginkgolides, notably ginkgolide B, competitively inhibit the action of platelet
activating factor. Consequently, this decreases platelet aggregation and
degranulation as well as conversion of membrane phospholipid into arachidonic
acid. Due to this, and the fact that flavonoids inhibit cyclooxygenase and
lipoxygenase, production of leukotrienes and Prostaglandins decreases. This may,
in part, explain GBE anti-inflammatory action as well as its use in the
treatment of bronchoconstriction seen in asthma.
The
effect of GBE on the vascular system is quite unique. By stimulating the action
of the endothelium derived relaxing factor and synthesis of prostacyclin by
platelets, it exerts a vasodilatory effect. In addition, it affects the tone of
the smooth muscles around the vessels in a way dependent on their original
state. In cases of paralysis, GBE increases tone and in cases of spasm it exerts
a relaxant effect. This action seems more pronounced in cases of ischaemia.
GBE
appears to have an affinity for neuronal tissue and cerebral function. It exerts
a protective action especially in cases of low oxygen levels. In addition to
inhibiting the lipid peroxidation of the high proportion of unsaturated fatty
acids present, it maintains aerobic glycolysis in cases of hypoxia.
It
also appears to increase certain neurotransmitter production, notably dopamine
and noradrenaline, as well as increase acetylcholine and serotonin receptor
numbers in animal models.
It
has been suggested that the bilobalides may aid the regrowth of damaged neurons
in the central nervous system. The results of GBE in reversing the consequences
of decreased cerebral function due to vascular insufficiency have been well
documented in numerous clinical trials.
Ingredients:
Diterpenes
(ginkgolides A, B and C), Sesquiterpenes (bilobalides), Flavonoids (flavonol
glycosides), essential oils and tannins.
This
standardized extract requires a 50:1 ratio of leaves to extract, resulting in
24% Ginkgoflavonglycosides and 6% Terpene Lactones as its active parts. While
both the leaves and fruit possess medicinal properties, most interest has been
shown recently in preparations made from the leaves.
Ginkgo
has two groups of active substances, flavonoids and terpene lactones, including
ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol. The ginkgolides
have been shown to control allergic inflammation, anaphylactic shock and asthma.
Precautions
None
Potential Side Effects
None reported
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