From:  http://www.kcweb.com/herb/herbmain.htm
Herbal Information Center - Ginkgo Bilboba
Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Biloba Leaf)
The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species, geological records
indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 150 - 200
million years. Chinese monks are credited with keeping the tree
in existence, as a sacred herb. It was first brought to Europe
in the 1700's and it is now a commonly prescribed drug in France
and Germany. It is one of the most well-researched herbs in
the world. 
In the last 30 years, more that 300 studies have given clinical
evidence that ginkgo prevents and benefits many problems
throughout the entire body. Ginkgo is gaining recognition as a
brain tonic that enhances memory because of its positive effects
on the vascular system, especially in the cerebellum. It is also
used as a treatment for vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
and a variety of neurological disorders and circulation problems.
Ginkgo may help to counteract the effects of aging, including
mental fatigue and lack of energy.
Ginkgo works by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout
the body's network of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen
to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency,
regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the
brain which uses 20% of the body's oxygen. 
Benefits of enhanced circulation in the brain include improved
short and long term memory, increased reaction time and
improved mental clarity. Ginkgo is often used to treat elderly
persons with Alzheimer's and other symptoms of cerebral
insufficiency. Cerebral insufficiency is a general term for a
collection of symptoms that include difficulties of
concentration and memory, absentmindedness, confusion, lack of
energy, depressive mood, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus,
and headache. 
Ginkgo constituents are beneficial for a variety of imbalances
and deterioration in the brain and body. Standardized ginkgo
extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a
common allergen in the body. Physical stress, and poor quality
food can overstimulate PAF production; in other words, blood
clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause cardiovascular disease,
brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and
inflammatory diseases. 
Ginkgo has been used to relieve tension and anxiety and improve
mental alertness, elevate mood and restore energy.
Ginkgo has two groups of active substances, flavonoids and
terpene lactones, including ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide,
quercetin, and kaempferol. The ginkgolides have been shown to
control allergic inflammation, anaphylactic shock and asthma. 
Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to
the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute
to premature aging and dementia. Antioxidants also protect the
eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous system. 
Ginkgo may also help control the transformation of cholesterol
to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can
relax constricted blood vessels. 
The herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-
related disorders such as diabetic peripheral vascular disease,
Raynaud's syndrome, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It can also
aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and
complications from stroke and skull injuries. Ginkgo's beneficial
effects on the circulatory system also can be of benefit in the
treatment of eye and ear disorders. 
Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the
retina, and can slow retinal deterioration resulting in an
increase of visual acuity. In clinical tests ginkgo has improved
hearing loss in the elderly. It also improves circulation in the
extremities relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs
and chronic arterial blockage. Among other things, ginkgo is
being investigated as a potential treatment to prevent the
rejection of transplanted organs, as a treatment for asthma and
for toxic shock syndrome.
Parts Used:
Dried leaf.
Common Use:
Ginkgo has been shown to be nutritional support for mental
alertness, enhanced vitality level, circulatory health and
blood vessel health. Its high antioxidant activity is valuable
for fighting age related conditions. All over the world, people
have claimed Ginkgo to be beneficial in the fight against the
gradual erosion of energy associated with aging. 
Care:
The ginkgo tree thrives in full sun and average soil. It is
very resistant to infection and pollution and can grow up to
120 feet. The small yellow fruit that falls from the female
tree has a strong rancid odor.
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