One of the most ubiquitously used herbs in the World, this very special herb is one of the kings of the plant realm! Having an age of approximately 200 million years old, its kismet that this tree of Wisdom is known for its therapeutic benefits aligned with longevity through its effect on circulatory, nervous system and brain health.
Memory and Concentration
Ginkgo is renowned for improving cognitive function, especially by addressing short-term memory and focus – leading to better information retention and recall. Having potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects due to its flavonoid and terpene presence promotes cerebral blood flow and helps fight mental fatigue and improve attention span.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus describes the perception of sounds created in one or both ears without the presence of internal or external stimuli to the auditory system. Ask anyone with chronic tinnitus how it impacts their life and they will be sure to tell you it can just about drive one around the bend! What makes this condition worse is that not only can it stem from a range of primary ailments, there is not a lot in the way of treatment using conventional medicine.
Ginkgo is thought to be helpful in tinnitus due to its antiplatelet and vascular-modulating effects that address the core mechanisms behind that ringing perception in the ear. Studies as to the success of Ginkgo are mixed, as although there is evidence supporting its use, there are others which have not shown improvement. Ultimately this may come down to the multifactorial nature of tinnitus, and the fact of it being a symptom rather of an underlying problem ranging from inner ear trauma, to hypertension and cardiovascular conditions.
Brain Health
The neuroprotective actions of Ginkgo biloba have long been explained by its antioxidant action, membrane-stabilising and platelet-activating factor antagonist effects, as well as playing a role at the mitochondrial level. All this jargon basically pointing to improved vascular health and decreased inflammation! This increase in circulation means more fresh blood and oxygenation to cells, as well as creating a healthier – low inflammatory environment for the repair and formation of new blood cells.
Circulation and Heart Health
Due to its flavonoid and terpene content, Ginkgo is renowned for its beneficial effects on the circulatory and vascular system – making it an ideal herb to help increase blood flow and improve vascular health. By promoting oxygenation and tone, as well as vasodilation to the veins and arteries, it is easy to see how the herb can have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, and also easy to see why Ginkgo has been used traditionally to extend longevity for such a long period of time!
Due to its effects on the circulatory system, Ginkgo can interact with other supplements and medications commonly prescribed by your doctor, so please check before adding Ginkgo to your supplement regime.
