Ginkgo biloba

What is it

Ginkgo biloba is a plant native to Central Asia, also cultivated in the United States and Europe.

The active ingredients are found in the leaves, with a typical fan shape, while the pulp of the fruits is irritating and toxic.

With the passage of time, ginkgo biloba has become an increasingly popular element of plant origin, used within drugs and dietary supplements. In pharmacies, for example, you can buy different types of ginkgo biloba products, with a variable dosage depending on your needs. On the market you can find various supplements near supermarkets, parapharmacies and herbalists.

Activity

Ginkgo owes its properties to flavonoids and terpenes (or ginkgolides), which give it protective qualities against the heart, vessels and nervous system.

Flavonoids decrease the permeability of blood capillaries and increase their resistance; By interacting with free radicals they counteract damage to cell membranes. Therefore, ginkgo acts positively on blood circulation and microcirculation, especially in the lower limbs.

Terpenes exert a nourishing and protective action on neurons in the cerebral cortex, increase levels of antidepressants and psychostimulants, and hinder the decline of memory and attention.

Not surprisingly, ginkgo biloba is considered a beneficial supplement for the brain and for the activity of the central nervous system. It can improve memory and concentration skills, act positively on cognitive functions, and treat disorders that occur at the nervous level.

For example, scientific evidence has highlighted the effectiveness of ginkgo in the treatment of chronic and temporary tinnitus, in alleviating its symptoms and associated discomfort. It is not uncommon to find products that associate its action with that of ginseng: another plant extract beneficial for the protection of brain function.

In addition, it has activity that inhibits the aggregation of platelets, performs an antiallergic action by reducing the release of histamine and counteracts the narrowing of the bronchi.

Why is it used

It is indicated in the treatment of venous insufficiency therefore it has a consolidated role in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease of the lower limbs, in disorders of the cerebral circulation, such as arteriosclerotic vasculopathy, senile dementia with memory deficiency and in disorders that cause cognitive decline.

Its positive effects can help in the treatment of psychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, or in the support of disorders of the psychological sphere, improving mood.

Ginkgo biloba is also considered an excellent supplement for improving sports performance. It is, in fact, taken by young and professional athletes to promote muscle recovery, increase lean mass and for energy support during training.

It is also useful in counteracting capillary fragility in the skin and mucous membranes, in case of hemorrhoids and circulation problems in the eye. Some studies have explored the possible benefits of ginkgo biloba also in the treatment of diabetes and arthritis-related joint pain. Finally, it is used to treat decreased hearing, dizziness and buzzing.

Do you want to know what are the other medicinal plants that promote blood circulation in the legs? Read the article Allied herbs of the legs.

How to use it

120-240 mg per day of nebulized dry extract and titrated in total terpenes minimum 6% and ginkgoflavonoids minimum 24%, in one or two administrations, preferably upon waking up and between meals. Cycles of 3-4 months can be interspersed with a 20-day break.

The preparations to be applied topically are useful to reduce the sense of heaviness in the legs. Its antioxidant action counteracts the stagnation of liquids and contributes to the prevention of edema. Very often, ginkgo biloba extracts can also be found within hand creams and body lotions.

Effects

The main side effects are general malaise, migraine, gastrointestinal disorders and diarrhea (especially at high doses). In this regard, it is of fundamental importance to carefully follow the indications of your doctor, to avoid the risks of an overdose.

Possible allergic reactions should also not be underestimated, especially if you have suffered from similar precedents with other types of supplements.

Precautions

As mentioned above, ginkgo biloba has an effect on platelet aggregation, and therefore on the blood clotting ability. Precisely for this reason, it should not be taken by hemophiliacs or in case of surgery.

It is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation, as its administration could have effects on the development of the fetus.

Before taking, it is absolutely recommended to consult the doctor, who will be able to indicate the correct dosage, the duration of therapy, and will be able to provide the most relevant information for the patient’s needs.

Interactions

Ginkgo extract enhances the effect of anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, antidepressants, diltiazem and nifedipine. Reduces the action of antiepileptics, beta blockers and nicardipine.

In combination with fluoxetine and buspirone it gives psychic disorders and can induce comatose state when combined with high doses of trazodone.

If you are taking a drug of these or other types, you need to pay close attention to contraindications. Information on drug interactions can be found in all package inserts. However, in case of doubt, you can consult your specialist, so as to prevent toxic reactions within your body.

Nutritional values

100 g of gingko biloba contains: