Ginkgo biloba extract is a herbal remedy that has been used for over 5000 years and its benefits have been backed by scientific research. Originally native to China, the ginkgo tree is cultivated around the world. It is increasingly used in Europe, particularly Germany and in the US to alleviate age-related cognitive impairment. Ginkgo is currently the most researched and adopted herbal remedy for cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought to have a neuroprotective effect on the brain.
How does it work?
Ginkgo contains biologically active compounds such as flavonoids, terpene lactones, and ginkgolic acids. These compounds combined have the following properties: antioxidant, vasodilator action, increase microcirculation and regulate neurotransmitter action .
What can ginkgo biloba do for you?
Memory and Cognitive Function: Ginkgo improves cognitive function and is often recommended to slow down cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s and other dementia patients. But it isn’t just for dementia patients. It has been shown to improve cognitive processes in young healthy individuals. It works by increasing blood flow to the brain, therefore promoting healthy brain function.
Raynaud’s Syndrome: Ginkgo has been shown to improve symptoms and number of attacks in individuals with Raynaud’s, a condition characterised by cold, painful hands and feet even in mild temperatures. Raynaud’s is caused by poor circulation to the extremities.
Tinnitus: This is a condition that is extremely irritating and is described as the perception of sound in one or both ears without any noise present in the environment. Ginkgo can improve tinnitus caused by ischemia (restriction in blood supply to tissues). The antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of ginkgo also contribute to the relief experienced by tinnitus sufferers.