Ginkgo Biloba is widely advertised as a herb that supports brain health. It is known by other names including living fossil, silver apricot, and maidenhair in Western countries. *

What is Ginkgo Biloba?

Ginkgo is mostly sold in the U.S. and European countries as it may support multiple beneficial health functions in the body. It is an ancient plant that's used traditionally in China, Japan, and India to as tonic with potential health benefits for thousands of years. *

How Could Ginkgo Support My Health?

Ginkgo Biloba (commonly known as ginkgo) may help support optimal memory function, as is often used by elderly people who may experience a decline in memory. The seeds and leaves of this herb have been used in medicines throughout the world as it shows support for mild cognitive function. Dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may affect cognition [1][2]. It is generally safe to take as a supplement because of it may offer support as a free radical scavenger. It may also support oxidative stress and platelet health. *

Ginkgo is rich in several phytochemicals, but only two active molecules are believed to contribute medicinal properties. These are flavonoids and terpenoid derivatives, two important potent compounds attributed with several beneficial health properties Flavonoid derivatives are comprised of quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, while terpenoid derivatives include ginkgolides and bilobalide. These derivatives are believed to have strong protective properties that can help support healthy DNA in cells [5]. *

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscles, blood vessels, and retina from damage. Similarly, terpenoid (especially ginkgolides) derivatives may improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of platelets. So far, ginkgolides have been identified only in Ginkgo, and comes in several types such as ginkgolides A, B, and C. *

Ginkgo Biloba (commonly known as ginkgo) may be helpful for elderly individuals in need of normal age-related memory support. The seeds and leaves of this herb have been used in natural remedies throughout the world as it shows support for mild cognitive health (MCI) and memory [1][2]. It is generally safe to take as a supplement because of its properties as a free radical scavenger. It also helps to lower oxidative stress and reduce platelet aggregation.

Ginkgo is rich in several phytochemicals, but only two active molecules are believed to contribute health properties. These are flavonoids and terpenoid derivatives, two important potent compounds attributed with several pharmacological properties such as flammation, antioxidant, cell mass growth and age support. Flavonoid derivatives are comprised of quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, while terpenoid derivatives include ginkgolides and bilobalide. These derivatives are believed to have strong protective properties that can help support DNA protection in healthy cells [5].

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that flavonoids support the nerves, heart muscles, blood vessels, and retina. Similarly, terpenoid (especially ginkgolides) derivatives support healthy blood flow by dilating blood vessels and supporting the fluidneess of platelets. So far, ginkgolides have been identified only in Ginkgo, and comes in several types such as ginkgolides A, B, and C.

Clinically, it has been recommended to support the central nervous system [2]. Ginkgo with flavone extracts help to protect us by strengthening our nerve cells and supporting our blood vessel health. In recent decades, concentrated extracts from Ginkgo Biloba leaves (GBE) have been used for vascular support. It is believed to be the most potent relaxant for our vascular smooth muscles. cerebrovascular health can be supported such as concentration, focus, energy, mood, ringing in ears are supported by Ginkgo extract supplements.

Hearing, veins, bone and stomach health can be supported by Ginkgo [6].

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is characterized by triglyceride accumulation in hepatocytes and is commonly associated with dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and hyperglycemia. Ginkgo flavones are an ideal option to help support a healthy liver. It regulates lipid metabolism and diminishes lipid accumulation in the livers of individuals on a high-fat diet [7].

Women who consume Ginkgo extract supplements show an increase in libido response [4]. Oral intake of the Ginkgo extract is more effective for our skin and eyes. Rather than topical application, consumption of this supplement shows remarkable results in age support. Its antioxidant properties help to support skin health and fine lines by lessening epidermal water loss. In combination with green tea, Ginkgo displays even stronger effects. Some studies have also indicated that Ginkgo may help support healthy eye sight [8], and help preserve the eyesight of those experiencing eye challenges.

The flavonoids in Ginkgo can support UV radiation by increasing the level of enzymes that neutralize free radicals, making it a great choice in supporting uv radiation [5]. Ginkgo displays strong support with healthy bacteria. Polyprenol (extracted from Ginkgo leaves) is an important active lipid component with viral supporting properties. A pharmacological study of polyprenols has found that it has chemotherapeutic properties effective in supporting cell mass management [3]. In addition, it has a spasmolytic property that enhances the relaxation or relief of muscle spasms. The extract from Ginkgo leaves also show a positive effect on throat health. *

Suggested Usage / Dosage

The recommended dosage for this extract is 240 mg daily for memory support. It is best taken with meals [1].

Interactions / Side Effects

When used orally and in moderate amounts, Ginkgo appears to be safe for most healthy adults. However, improper usage or overdosing can trigger several health issues such as increased bleeding, especially in pregnant women. Ginkgo interferes with and may potentiate the effects of anticoagulant medication. Digestive problems such as an upset stomach, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea, migraines, abnormal heartbeat, restlessness, and headaches are also reported from an overdose. *

Ideal Storage Conditions

Use a sealed container to store this product in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct light and moisture. Once the package is opened, it must be re-sealed and used within 6 months.

Shelf Life

2 years from Date of Manufacture.

References

1. Nutritional Supplements and the Brain. Meeusen R, Decroix L. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2017 Dec 18:1-34.
2. Over-the-Counter Supplement Interventions to Prevent Cognitive Decline, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Clinical Alzheimer-Type Dementia: A Systematic Review. Butler M et al., Ann Intern Med. 2017 Dec 19.
3. Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761-induced upregulation of LincRNA-p21 inhibits colorectal cancer metastasis by associating with EZH2. Liu T et al., Oncotarget. 2017 Sep 27;8(53):91614-91627.
4. Meston CM, Rellini AH, Telch MJ. Short- and long-term effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on dysfunction in women. Arch Libido Behav. 2008;37(4):530-547. doi:10.1007/s10508-008-9316-2. Radioprotective efficacy of Ginkgo biloba and Angelica archangelica extract against 99m-sestamibi induced oxidative stress and lens injury in rats.Khedr MH et al., Int J Radiat Biol. 2017 Nov 30:1-8.
5. Consumption of plant food supplements in the Netherlands. Jeurissen SMF, Buurma-Rethans EJM, Beukers MH, Jansen-van der Vliet M, van Rossum CTM, Sprong RC. Food Funct. 2017 Nov 29.
6. Evaluation of the anti-osteoporotic effect of Ginkgo biloba L. in Wistar rats with glucocorticoid-induced-osteoporosis by bone densitometry using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and mechanical testing. Lucinda LMF et al., An Acad Bras Cienc. 2017 Oct-Dec;89(4):2833-2841.
7. Yuan G, Gong Z, Li J, Li X. Ginkgo biloba extract protects against alcohol-induced liver injury in rats. Phytother Res. 2007;21(3):234-238. doi:10.1002/ptr.2054.
8. 1. Lee J, Sohn SW, Kee C. Effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on visual field progression in normal tension glaucoma. J Glaucoma. 2013;22(9):780-784. doi:10.1097/IJG.0b013e3182595075.