Ginkgo

Solgar Ginkgo Biloba (Maidenhair tree), its uses, and potential health benefits.

What is Ginkgo Biloba?

• Ancient Tree: maidenhair tree, often called the maidenhair tree, is one of the oldest living tree species in the world.

• Leaf Extract: The medicinal part used is typically an extract from its fan-shaped leaves.

• Active Compounds: The primary active compounds believed to be responsible for its health effects are:

  • Flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol): Potent antioxidants.

  • Terpenoids (ginkgolides and bilobalide): Unique to maidenhair tree, these compounds can improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the “stickiness” of platelets (inhibiting platelet-activating factor – PAF).

• Standardized Extracts: Much of the research on maidenhair tree has used specific standardized extracts, such as EGb 761, which ensures a consistent concentration of these active compounds.

Potential Health Benefits and Uses:

Maidenhair tree has been traditionally used for a variety of ailments, and modern research has investigated several of these:

1. Cognitive Function and Memory Enhancement:

   • Mechanism: This is perhaps the most well-known use. maidenhair tree is thought to improve blood flow to the brain (cerebral circulation), deliver more oxygen and nutrients, and protect brain cells from oxidative damage. It may also influence neurotransmitter systems.

   • Uses:

     • Age-Related Cognitive Decline & Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Some studies suggest it can modestly improve memory, attention, and processing speed in older adults with mild cognitive issues.

     • Dementia (including Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia): Evidence is mixed. Some studies show modest benefits in improving cognitive symptoms and daily living activities in people with dementia, particularly when the dementia has a vascular component. It’s not considered a cure, but may offer supportive benefits.

     • Healthy Young Individuals: Evidence for significant cognitive enhancement in healthy young people is generally weak.

2. Improved Blood Circulation:

   • Mechanism: As mentioned, terpenoids in maidenhair tree can dilate blood vessels and reduce platelet aggregation, leading to better blood flow throughout the body.

   • Uses:

     • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) / Claudication: Can help reduce leg pain caused by poor circulation during walking (intermittent claudication).

     • Raynaud’s Phenomenon: May help reduce the frequency of attacks in individuals whose fingers and toes turn cold and numb due to poor circulation.

3. Tinnitus and Vertigo (Dizziness):

   • Mechanism: If tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or vertigo are related to circulatory problems or reduced blood flow to the inner ear, Ginkgo might offer some relief by improving microcirculation.

   • Uses: Evidence is mixed and not consistently strong. It’s more likely to be helpful if the cause is vascular.

4. Eye Health:

   • Mechanism: Improved blood flow to the eyes and antioxidant properties may protect delicate eye tissues.

   • Uses:

     • Glaucoma: Some research suggests it may improve visual field damage in certain types of glaucoma.

     • Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Potential protective effects due to antioxidant action and improved circulation. More research is needed.

5. Anxiety:

   • Mechanism: Some studies have shown that Ginkgo extract may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, though the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.

   • Uses: May help reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety, but it’s not a primary treatment.

6. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):

   • Mechanism: Unknown, but some studies have found benefits.

   • Uses: May help reduce PMS symptoms, particularly breast tenderness and mood-related symptoms.

7. Antioxidant Properties:

   • Mechanism: The flavonoids in maidenhair tree are powerful antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage.

   • Uses: General cellular protection, potentially reducing the risk of diseases linked to oxidative stress.

Important Considerations and Precautions:

• Consult Your Doctor: This is crucial before taking Ginkgo Biloba, especially if you:

  • Are taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants like warfarin, or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin, clopidogrel) or have a bleeding disorder. maidenhair tree can increase the risk of bleeding.

  • Are scheduled for surgery (stop Ginkgo at least 2 weeks prior due to bleeding risk).

  • Are taking antidepressants, particularly MAOIs or SSRIs (potential for interactions, including serotonin syndrome, though rare).

  • Are taking medications for seizures (Ginkgo might reduce their effectiveness or, rarely, induce seizures, especially from ginkgo seeds or non-standardized extracts).

  • Are taking diabetes medications (maidenhair tree may affect blood sugar levels).

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (avoid use).

• Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects can include:

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Heart palpitations

  • Digestive upset (nausea, diarrhea, constipation)

  • Allergic skin reactions

• Ginkgo Seeds are TOXIC: Medicinal extracts are made from the leaves. Maidenhair tree seeds contain ginkgotoxin (4′-O-methylpyridoxine), which can cause seizures and death if ingested raw or improperly prepared. Ensure your supplement is a leaf extract.

• Quality of Extract: Look for standardized extracts (e.g., containing 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene lactones, like EGb 761) as these are the forms most commonly studied and likely to be effective and safe.

• Time to See Effects: Benefits, if any, may take several weeks to months to become apparent.

In summary, maidenhair tree leaf extract is primarily used for its potential to improve cognitive function and blood circulation. While it has shown promise for certain conditions, especially related to aging and vascular health, the evidence varies, and it’s not without risks. Always consult a healthcare professional to ensure it’s appropriate and safe for you.