Discovering the Multi-Faceted Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba: More Than Just a Memory Booster

For thousands of years, the ginkgo biloba has been used for its health benefits. The origins of ginkgo's medicinal uses can be traced back to the ancient Chinese herbal manual called the Materia Medica. Although the ginkgo biloba's leaves and seeds are commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern research primarily concentrates on ginkgo extract made from the leaves. Ginkgo biloba's antioxidative properties and benefits for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and mental well-being have been extensively studied.

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses ginkgo seeds to unblock energy channels that run through different organ systems, such as the kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs. It is believed that the benefits of ginkgo are associated with its ability to improve blood flow to various body parts. Additionally, the extract has been closely examined in some clinical trials on a small scale. In a previous study, individuals with heart disease were given ginkgo supplements, and an immediate increase in blood flow to other body parts was observed.

Recent studies suggest that ginkgo biloba supplements may be beneficial for people who are experiencing memory and cognitive issues, which are often related to dementia. Some of the possible benefits of taking ginkgo biloba may include improved memory, better social skills, and increased ability to perform daily tasks. In one study involving over 200 patients, an extract of ginkgo biloba known as EGb 761 was found to be effective in treating a form of dementia called Alzheimer’s.

In addition to its quality of improving cognitive function, the antioxidative property of ginkgo biloba has been associated with various other potential health benefits. Kristine Dilley, a registered dietitian at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in the US, said, “Ginkgo contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects. Antioxidants combat or neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. Many of the suspected benefits of taking ginkgo are related to these antioxidant effects.”

Ginkgo contains chemicals that can help reduce inflammation in the airways, which is important for people with respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (or COPD). Ginkgo also shows promise as a potential remedy for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.