Feature
Herb
Ginkgo
Biloba
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Ginkgo's
medical use can be traced back almost 5,000 years in Chinese Herbal
Medicine, and so it deserves a lot of attention!
Uses:
Primary:
Age related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's, Intermittent Claudication.
Secondary:
Atherosclerosis, Depression, Impotence (vascular origin), Macular
degeneration, Retinopathy, Vertigo. Other: Asthma, Diabetes, Migraines,
Raynaud's disease, Tinnitus.
Active
constituents: The medical benefits of Ginkgo biloba extract
(GBE) rely primarily on 2 groups of active components: the ginkgo
flavone glycosides and the terpene lactones. The 24% ginkgo flavone
glycoside designation on GBE labels indicates the proper balance
of bioflavanoids. These bioflavanoids are primarily responsible
for GBE's antioxidant activity and ability to inhibit platelet
aggregation (stickiness). This is what may help with circulatory
diseases, and support the brain and central nervous system. The
terpene lactones 6% are associated with increased circulation
to the brain and other parts of the body, as well as protection
of nerve cells. Recent animal studies indicate that bilobalide,
one of the terpene lactones, may help regenerate damaged nerve
cells.
Dosage:
Most research studies have used between 120mg to 240mg of GBE
standardized to contain 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene
lactones. It is best taken on an empty stomach (20 min. before
or 2 hrs. after food) in divided doses.
Interactions
or Contraindications
GBE is safe in pregnant and lactating women. Side effects are
extremely rare and mild, and might include headache and/or mild
stomach upset for 1 to 2 days. GBE may potentiate or increase
the effect of MAOI's, aspirin (chronic use at high doses ie: 240mg./day,
and papaverine (an injection for impotence) when it is ineffective,
therefore improving the effectiveness of treatment. GBE should
not generally be taken with anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin
(coumadin) due to its platelet inhibiting action, and increased
risk of hemorrhage. However, it may be considered as a replacement
therapy under the care of a physician.
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