Herbal Remedies ~ Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba

The fruits and seeds have been used in Chinese medicine since 2800 BC. Within the last couple decades western medicine has predominantly made use of the leaf extract.

Beneficial compounds include:

Flavone glycosides, diterpene lactones, ginkgolides, bilobalide, Ascorbic acid, catechin, iron-based superoxide dismutase, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, protocatechuic acid, shikimic acid, sterols and vanillic acid.

The antioxidant activities of this herb act as a free-radical scavenger. It also produces arterial and venous changes which increase cerebral blood flow and decrease blood vessel spasms. This herb also decreases viscosity of the blood. It is used to decrease progression of tissue degeneration in patients with dementia and similar conditions. The anti-inflammatory effects of this herb are said to be useful in peoplewith allergies,asthma, bronchitis and other inflammatory conditions.

This herb is a widely used remedy for treating memory loss and degenerative diseases of the brain and central nervous system. It stimulates circulation and inhibits excessive blood clotting. It is also useful for treating Alzheimer's, anxiety, depression, ADD, cancer, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, impotence, heart attack, stroke, and tinnitus.Available in teas, tinctures and capsules.

CAUTIONS: Extremely large doses may cause headaches, dizziness and or nausea.

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