Blood and Brain Booster?
Ginkgo Biloba. This herb is from an ancient tree in China, and is regarded as a living fossil because it is the last of its kind in its biological family. These trees were almost extinct but saved by humanity and now are more populous than before! This tree was always used in some form medicinally but recently we use more of the leaves to try to boost our health. It is one of the most commonly used herbs in the world.
People have used ginkgo for lots of issues previously but now there is ongoing research to see if it helps with boosting brain function and helps other diseases through increased blood flow. We know that ginkgo has a lot of antioxidant abilities and has the ability to combat inflammation which might be why it can help with blood flow and brain function!
Blood flow
Ginkgo is known to help with blood flow. We know this because ginkgo has terpenoids which can help open blood vessels and help nutrients go where they are needed! It is believed that ginkgo has the ability to help with other diseases, but more research will need to be done to prove if the increased blood flow actually does help with these diseases.
Brain Booster
Ginkgo has antioxidant benefits which has led to the belief that ginkgo can help with memory, alzhimers and dementia. “The studies on these have been inconsistent however. Some studies show a marked reduction in the rate of cognitive decline in people with dementia using ginkgo, but others fail to replicate this result. A review of 21 studies revealed that when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, ginkgo extract may increase functional capabilities in those with mild Alzheimer’s (12).” (Healthline)
Mental Health
While depression and anxiety have multiple causes, ginkgo might be able to help with some of them. “A small randomized controlled trial with 136 subjects suggested that EGb (Extracted Ginkgo biloba), as an adjunctive treatment along with citalopram, could improve depressive symptoms and cognitive function” (NIH). The belief is that ginkgo has anti-inflammatory properties which can help the brain function smoother when high amounts of stress hormones are present. More research is needed to be done to help understand if this is true and how ginkgo plays a role in mental health.
Reproductive health
Ginkgo might have the ability to also boost reproductive health in women and men. A randomized control trial of 108 patients showed that a nutritional supplement containing L-arginine, ginseng, ginkgo, damiana, multivitamins, and minerals, helped increase the level of sexual desire in premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women compared to placebo.[24] (NIH). There is also some conversation about if ginkgo can help men who experience ED. There might be potential here since ginkgo helps blood flow!
Side effects
Like royal jelly ginkgo has the ability to help thin the blood. If you are on blood thinners currently you should talk with a doctor before starting this supplement. “ Always talk to a doctor before taking an herbal supplement. It could interact with other medicines or supplements you’re taking.” (Web MD).
Disclaimer!
**We are not medical professionals, nor should this information be used as medical consultation. This information is for educational purposes. You should consult a doctor before making any serious medical decisions. In no way do we claim that our product will diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.**
SOURCES
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginkgo-biloba-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_16
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3679686/