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ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo – A Miracle Herb That Helps Many Health Complaints
October 23, 2012 Medicinal Plants and Herbs

ginkgo biloba

 

Ginkgo Biloba is known for its health benefits. In ancient China, the juice from its leaves and seeds were extracted in order to treat various diseases.

It is still being practiced until now and below are just some of the ailments it can address.


Introduction:

 

There are studies that prove the efficacy of ginkgo in treating headache, short-term memory loss, ringing in the ears or tinnitus and depression. The concentrated extract of its leaves, whether it be in tablet or liquid form are known to highly benefit those with problems in the circulatory system by enhancing the flow of the blood towards capillaries and arteries.

Scientists have found that the extracts of the leaves and seeds of these herbs can also address the prevention of blood clots and can minimize the damage that can be brought about by free radicals. Since it has also been found to bring about an overall sense of well-being, it can also be used as a dietary supplement for the brains, eyes, ears, heart and legs. It can also be taken in tea form.

The herb is also added to energy drinks however, the concentration is too low to have any effect at all. Companies use it for marketing purposes. Any feeling on the part of the consumer might only be brought about by the concept of placebo effect.

In Chinese and Japanese tradition, ginkgo is used as one of the home remedies for diarrhea, urinary frequency, gonorrhea, fever and skin diseases. It is also known as a great digestive aid. It is used to stimulate the heart and lungs and is effective in treating bronchitis, asthma, cough and wheezing.

Antioxidants are known to have the ability to fight against free radicals. The latter is known to bring about a lot of damage to the body like the modification of DNA structures and cell membranes that can easily result to death. Free radicals are present in the environment and substances such as smoke from cigarettes and pollution can encourage it to keep on spreading. Free radicals are known to cause heart diseases, cancer and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Ginkgo Biloba is known to contain loads of antioxidants.

Aside from its leaves, ginkgoes also have seeds or nuts. Fresh ginkgo nuts are included in ancient Chinese medicine as an effective treatment for bronchitis, asthma, coughs and urinary incontinence. The seeds can also be taken in order to promote proper digestion. Raw seeds are also considered to have counter-vinous and anti-cancer properties. On the other hand, cooked seeds are believed to have the ability to promote sperm production.

Ginkgoes are also believed to offer great benefits to the skin. Its pulp is combined with wine or oil and the mixture is used as a soap substitute.

 

Gingko_biloba

Gingko_biloba

 

Ginkgo and Its Components

You might wonder what ginkgo herbs contain that make it exceptionally beneficial for the health. For starters, it has terpenoids and flavonoid glycosides that are known for their antioxidant activities and effects. These substances are known as concentration and memory enhancers.

On the other hand, nuts of the Ginkgo Biloba tree contain Ginnol and Ginkgolic Acids. These chemicals are known to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungal infections. Fresh seeds or nuts only have 3% fat and are rich in niacin, starch and protein.

 

Taking Ginkgoes

There are a number of ginkgo products that you can choose from. It is available in extracts which contain 6 to 12% terpenoids and 24 to 32% flavonoids. It is also available in capsules and tablets. Its dried leaves are used for tea.

You should bear in mind that you should not use the leaf in your home remedies but rather its extracts. There are Ginkgo Biloba Extracts or GBEs that are readily available in the market. GBEs are especially popular for its positive effect in blood circulation.

Today, more and more people are in the lookout for the best thing that can improve their well-being. If you are one of these people, you will be pleased to know that there are companies that combine GBEs with products like nutrition bars, fruit smoothies and even soft drinks. However, you should understand that they do not contain the right amount. It is still better to take Ginkgo Biloba Extracts in the right dosage.

 

 

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