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Benefits of Ginkgo And Its Side Effects

Last Updated: Dec 10, 2024

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Ginkgo biloba which is also known as maidenhair, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine since time immemorial to cure various health issues. In fact, studies state that ginkgo biloba is the oldest tree breed on our planet, and presently it is one of the leading herbal remedies sold in the market all around the world. Ginkgo’s been comprehensively acknowledged for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, platelet-forming and circulation-boosting properties. Following the current research, ginkgo biloba aids to enhance cognitive function, positive mood and reduced symptoms of several chronic diseases for instance; it’s been used as a natural remedy for asthma.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba which proceeds by the scientific term Salisburia adiantifolia is a biological extract derived from the leaves of Chinese ginkgo tree. Dried ginkgo leaf and seed, both have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries but presently standardized excerpt from the ginkgo biloba plant is under the spotlight of medical research whose scientific names are EGb761 and GBE. For decades, Ginkgo biloba has been studied in countries like France, Germany and China. It is a prescription herb in Germany due to its medicinal properties.

Nutritional Value of Ginkgo

Scientists have classified over 40 components in ginkgo out of which only two have medicinal properties which are: flavonoids and terpenoids. Flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants that benefit the nerves, blood vessels, heart muscles and the retina. Terpenoids are known to enhance the flow of blood. Ginkgo composes small amounts of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates. It is a storehouse of minerals like copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron and many more minerals.

Nutritional facts Per 100 Grams

182
Calories
1.68 g
Total Fat
7 mg
Sodium
510 mg
Potassium
37.6 g
Total Carbohydrate
4.32 g
Protein

Vitamins and Minerals

4 %
Vitamin A
0.002
Calcium
16.67 %
Vitamin C
12.50 %
Iron
25.23 %
Vitamin B-6
6.43 %
Magnesium

Health Benefits of Ginkgo

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Mentioned below are the best health benefits of Ginkgo

Helps overcome depression

Ginkgo helps to lessen the suffering from chronically high stress, depression, nervousness, or mood swings. Studies suggest that ginkgo biloba benefits the body’s capability to control stress and neutralizes the effects of high levels of stress hormones. Ginkgo is known as an adapotgen shrub that instinctively raises the body’s capacity to handle worries and troubles. It is particularly beneficial for people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic attacks as well as people suffering from social phobias.

Improves vision

Evidence suggests that consuming ginkgo leaf extract orally can enhance colour vision in people with retinal damage caused due to diabetes. Furthermore, taking ginkgo leaf extract orally for a prolonged time seems to lessen the pre-existing damage to the optical field in a few people with normal tension glaucoma. Contrary to this study, it is believed that ginkgo does not curb glaucoma progression when taken for only a month. A few studies suggest that ginkgo can be effective at diminishing the risk for age-related macular degeneration as a result of its platelet-activating quality and blockage of membrane damage due to free radicals.

Reduces Migraine frequency

The contents of leaves of the Gingko tree include flavonoids and terpenoids; antioxidants, which destroy free radicals which damage cells. Therefore it is considered that gingko biloba prevents the damage that free radicals cause. Furthermore Ginkgolide B which is an element of ginkgo biloba is useful as a precautionary treatment in lowering migraine frequency and the need for migraine medications.

Enhances memory

Ginkgo biloba is also known as the brain herb. Research suggests that it can enhance memories of people diagnosed with dementia. Ginkgo biloba is generally an additional content in nutrition bars, soft drinks, smoothies, etc. to enhance memory and boost cognitive performance. Although some contrary evidence exists, most researchers suggest that ginkgo can combat low concentration, and heal fatigue. Also, it is useful for treating cerebral insufficiency.

Inhibits cancer

Ginkgo leaf extract whose sizable contents are antioxidants named flavonoids and terpenoids, combat against oxidant compounds that could cause damage to cell DNA and speed up cancer development. These antioxidants in ginkgo biloba also provide anti-cancer assistance by determining gene expression. The flavonoids present in ginkgo are biloba contin quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamneten. Moreover, it also has anti-inflammatory properties as it contains steroid-like substances such as beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol.

Advances dopamine level

Ginkgo biloba helps to treat depression as it increases production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters often deficient in those diagnosed with depression. Studies state that ginkgo biloba acts as a monoamine oxidase preventer, which deducts the level of monoamine oxidase that breaks down dopamine. Hence, ginkgo biloba boosts the levels of dopamine by decreasing levels of monoamine oxidase.

Improves blood circulation

Research suggests that ginkgo biloba's medicinal effects are mostly related to its potency as a circulatory enhancer. The components of ginkgo leaf aid to dilate blood vessels, thereby increasing the flow of blood to the legs, ears, eyes and brain. Ginkgo's other effects are to avoid problems like blood clotting, infectious bacteria and brain chemistry.

Pacifies post menstrual stress

Various mechanisms and components of ginkgo participate in these physical and psychological benefits for PMS. Ginkgo raises the circulation of blood by managing the equilibrium of prostacyclins and thromboxane A2. Many other components help to relief congestive symptoms like mastalgia, abdominal swelling, and edema. Quercetin found in ginkgo prevents histamine release.

Anti-aging property

One of the most pop culture uses of ginkgo biloba is as an anti-aging secret. While many of the claims are a bit exaggerated, the antioxidants present in the herb do help the skin to remain tight and healthy, slowing the appearance of wrinkles and other age spots, as well as helping to speed up wound healing and lessening the appearance of scars.

Shields the heart

Sooner or later calcium and the fatty materials develop to a point that blood flow is restrained, causing the blood pressure to rise and increases the risk of chest pain and heart attacks. The arterial supply of blood to the brain can also be obstructed which might result in a stroke if not treated soon. Ginkgo biloba is highly efficient in beating heart conditions familiar as arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis.

Uses of Ginkgo

Ginkgo’s curative effects come from its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. It also improves blood flow and plays a vital role in functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain. Several other studies have come to the conclusion that ginkgo reduces the development of all types of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease.

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Side-Effects & Allergies of Ginkgo

The side effects of ginkgo biloba are rare and mild. Abdominal problems, skin reactions, dizziness and headache are the common side effects associated with Ginkgo biloba. It should not be used if one has a bleeding condition or. Ginkgo should be avoided by pregnant women, nursing mothers and children. Moreover no herbal supplement should be used without the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Cultivation of Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba is well known as a “living fossil” for a reason because it is the only living member of the Ginkgoales family. Its primitive fossils backdate to 270 million years ago, which, puts this plant on earth with the dinosaurs. It was very famous throughout Europe, Asia and North America during the Cretaceous period . The Ginkgos must receive ample sunlight as they grow unsatisfactorily in the shade. The soil should be moist during its first three to five years. After that time, Ginkgo is drought tolerant.

References

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    Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
    Reviewed By
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    Reviewed ByDt. Ms. Shilpa MarwahB.Sc (Home Science), Post Graduation Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health NutritionDietitian/Nutritionist
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