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Other names:
Also known as : Ginkgo Biloba, Maidenhair tree, Asiatic ginseng, Chinese ginseng
What it is supposed to do:
 | Slow the aging process and promote general well being. |
| Enhance cerebral blood flow and thus help with dementia and Alzheimer’s
disease. |
| Used to treat circulatory disorders, headaches, impotence, hepatitis,
asthma, tinnitus, stroke, menopause. |
| Widely promoted as an overall performance enhancing supplement, promising
stamina, speed, and endurance. |
| Improve memory, and circulation in cardiovascular disease. |
How it is supposed to work:
Ginko Biloba is supposed to have anti inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
May interfere with clot formation.
Toxic effects:
Ginko decreases the amount of platelet and red cell aggregation therefore
care should be taken when this herbal medicine is taken with other
anticoagulants.
May produce dizziness, tinnitus, headache, emotional lability and anxiety
Ginko Biloba can cause bleeding complications during surgery
Does it work?
| Clinical studies have not shown any benefit for menopausal symptoms as
compared to placebo. |
| Has demonstrated ability to increase blood flow and tissue perfusion as
well as stimulating production of prostaglandins. |
| No measurable benefit in memory or related cognitive function. |
Other information:
Ginko Biloba can cause bleeding complications during surgery
References:
Wilkund IK, Mattsson LA, Lindgren R. Effects of a standardized ginseng
extract on quality of life and physiological parameters in symptomatic
postmenopausal women:a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Swedish
Alternative Medicine Group. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 1999; 19:89-99.
Solomon PR, Adams F, Silver A, Zimmer J, De Veaux R. Ginko for memory
enhancement. A randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2002;288:835-840.
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