Ginkgo for the Prevention of Memory Loss

Ginkgo for the Prevention of Memory Loss

Ginkgo for the Prevention of Memory Loss

Ailments related to mental aging and reduction of cognitive abilities has been a subject of attention in the medical community for decades. Many such diseases still do not have a specific cure. There are a number of plants and herbs people use for getting relief from various ailments and physical problems. However, the healing powers of some of the herbs have been challenged by scientists in recent times. The latest herb that has come under the scanner of researchers is Ginkgo Biloba.

Ginkgo biloba, also called as Maidenhair-tree, is the oldest tree on the Earth. The word 'Ginkgo' is derived for the Chinese word yah-chio which means 'foot of the duck.' It is the lone survivor of the plant family that existed 200 million years ago. Hence, Ginkgo biloba is also called as 'living fossil.' China was considered as their origin. Ginkgo biloba are herbs that are procured from the Ginkgo tree. It is the only surviving tree of the plant family Ginkgoaceae. It is believed that the leaves of the tree contain health benefits of the ginkgo biloba and is used to make herbal teas and extracts.

Ginkgo has been used in medicine to enhance memory, energy and concentration. Emerging evidence suggests that GBE may be particularly effective in treating tinnitus and vascular disease. Laboratory studies have shown that GBE improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets. Ginkgo leaves also contain two types of chemicals (flavonoids and terpenoids) believed to have potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants such as those found in ginkgo can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. It also shows the property of neuroprotective agent.

In a study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 240 milligrams per day of the dietary supplement Ginkgo Biloba was found to be statistically ineffective in reducing the development of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older people. A recent large controlled trial, however, found no effect of ginkgo on memory function using a large battery of tests in normal individuals. Manufacturers, however, promote gingko for the enhancement of memory in normal individuals, or to prevent the normal decline of memory with aging, and there really is no evidence that they are helpful for this purpose.

Despite all the health benefits, several studies have revealed certain side effects of Ginkgo biloba. Bleeding can be termed as an important side effect of this herb, especially if taken by the people having bleeding disorders. Coma and seizures are also its major side effects. Similarly, if taken with anticoagulant drugs like, warfarin, Ginkgo biloba can raise the risk for increased bruising or bleeding. Headaches, gastrointestinal problems like, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, palpitation, dizziness and muscle weakness are some common Ginkgo biloba side effects. Anxiety is another commonly reported side effect of this herb.

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