Plant Medicine 101: Ginkgo Biloba – An Endangered Species

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Also, while every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, you are strongly advised to take responsibility and do your own research.

In the previous article, we looked at Frankincense, an herb that has been used as medicine and in religious practices.

In this article, we will look at Gingko biloba.

So what is it?

Ginkgo (G. biloba) is one of the oldest tree species on earth and its leaves are one of the most studied (over 400) in clinical research circles. It is an herbal form of medicine and is the sole member of the family Ginkgoaceae (China).

The tree also happens to be on the endangered, at-risk list.

Benefits for the elderly

Many traditional medicines contain Ginkgo and are used for enhancing memory as well as improving circulation. Scientific studies all support and validate these claims, although they are rather mixed in terms of results. Newer evidence suggests that Ginkgo might be effective in treating decreased blood flow to the brain, especially in the elderly.

Apart from a range of phytochemicals, there are flavonoids and terpenoids, which are thought to have very strong antioxidant properties which could support those with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

Taking more is not necessarily better

While the Ginkgo plant is still in tree form, it produces “fruit” that is not edible. The seeds are poisonous in large amounts and over extended periods.

The lesson here is that more is not necessarily better. So do take care!

Focus of scientific research

Most of the studies that are conducted on Ginkgo are done on the leaves of the plant with a view towards standardization.

Much of the research is centered on treatment of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Because Ginkgo is so effective in improving blood flow to the brain and because of its antioxidant properties, the evidence that Ginkgo could help sufferers is quite promising.

It is suggested that Ginkgo can improve cognitive functions such as thinking, learning, and memory, and reduce anxiety. Further studies are showing that the flavonoids can also help with retinal blood flow issues, and other circulatory issues. It has also been used for dealing with erectile dysfunction.

There is even research that indicates the use of Gingko biloba as a much more beneficial adjunct therapy for schizophrenics on antipsychotic medications.

Some research has been done on its use for treating tinnitus, with mixed results.

Benefits for strength athletes

In general, Gingko biloba extracts have been shown to have a beneficial effect on central nervous system (CNS) function. Could this kind of information be useful for strength athletes and bodybuilders?

In the next article, we will look at the popular herb Ginseng.

To a better, wiser, stronger YOU!

Sources:

Ginkgo biloba. Located at American Botanical Council (online),
https://www.herbalgram.org/adopt-an-herb/ginkgo/ [Accessed May 15, 2023]

Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract. Herbal medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Located at American Botanical Council (online), https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/expanded-commission-e/ginkgo-biloba-leaf-extract/ [Accessed May 15, 2023]

Maclennan KM, Darlington CL, Smith PF. The CNS effects of Ginkgo biloba extracts and ginkgolide B. Prog Neurobiol. 2002 Jun;67(3):235-57. doi: 10.1016/s0301-0082(02)00015-1. PMID: 12169298.