ALEX VASAUSKAS was thinking about Ginkgo biloba and keyed into 
cyberspace:
AV>From:  http://www.kcweb.com/herb/herbmain.htm
AV>Herbal Information Center - Ginkgo Bilboba
AV>Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Biloba Leaf)
AV>The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species, geological records
AV>indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 150 - 200
AV>million years. Chinese monks are credited with keeping the tree
AV>in existence, as a sacred herb.
I did not know that Chinese monks were around for that long of a period 
of time.
AV>Ginkgo constituents are beneficial for a variety of imbalances
AV>and deterioration in the brain and body. Standardized ginkgo
AV>extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a
AV>common allergen in the body. Physical stress, and poor quality
AV>food can overstimulate PAF production; in other words, blood
AV>clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause cardiovascular disease,
AV>brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and
AV>inflammatory diseases. 
Of course, reduced PAF activity may, in some people, cause purpuras and 
hemorrhage. Does the package insert warn those people? Not the one's I 
have read.
AV>Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to
AV>the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute
AV>to premature aging and dementia. Antioxidants also protect the
AV>eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous system. 
Vitamin C is an excellent anti-oxidant, and a heck of a lot cheaper. It 
has been heavily researched and its interactions are known.
AV>Ginkgo may also help control the transformation of cholesterol
AV>to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can
AV>relax constricted blood vessels. 
The key word is "may". There is no proof that it does.
AV>The herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-
AV>related disorders such as diabetic peripheral vascular disease,
AV>Raynaud's syndrome, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It can also
AV>aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and
"Used to treat" does not mean "safe and effective". It does not mean 
that it demonstrably works.
AV>complications from stroke and skull injuries. Ginkgo's beneficial
AV>effects on the circulatory system also can be of benefit in the
AV>treatment of eye and ear disorders. 
AV>Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the
AV>retina, and can slow retinal deterioration resulting in an
AV>increase of visual acuity. In clinical tests ginkgo has improved
Careful here...visual acuity is a function of the lens system of the 
eye.
AV>hearing loss in the elderly. It also improves circulation in the
AV>extremities relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs
AV>and chronic arterial blockage. Among other things, ginkgo is
AV>being investigated as a potential treatment to prevent the
AV>rejection of transplanted organs, as a treatment for asthma and
AV>for toxic shock syndrome.
AV>Parts Used:
AV>Dried leaf.
AV>Common Use:
AV>Ginkgo has been shown to be nutritional support for mental
AV>alertness, enhanced vitality level, circulatory health and
AV>blood vessel health. Its high antioxidant activity is valuable
AV>for fighting age related conditions. All over the world, people
AV>have claimed Ginkgo to be beneficial in the fight against the
AV>gradual erosion of energy associated with aging. 
All very subjective.
Bottom line, it is a potent anti-oxidant. So is vitamin C. Vitamin C 
comes in very inexpensive forms (tablets) or forms that taste great! 
Like broccoli. (Jane should love broccoli, as George Bush hated it. 
Spite him Jane, and eat it three times per week).
Heck, a nice glass of red wine with dinner, is an excellent source of 
anti-oxidants. Look at the French and how they do not have as high an 
(Continued next message...)
                ===>The Voice of Reason<===
                     mark.probert@juno.com
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 * CMPQwk #1.4 * UNREGISTERED EVALUATION COPY
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