Ginkgo biloba is a tree whose leaves are used to make supplements for memory and improve blood circulation. It has beneficial properties for people’s health. It acts against inflammation, hemorrhoids, and improves symptoms of swollen legs. It enjoys good reviews in its different brands and can be prepared in infusions or taken in capsule form.
Ginkgo biloba properties
It is considered medicinal and therapeutic. The properties of ginkgo biloba are due to its content of glucosides from flavonol and terpenic lactones also known as bilobalides and ginkgolides.
Its characteristics have proven effects and benefits. There is even a drug called “tanakene” developed from its active ingredients that can be purchased in supplements with ginkgo capsules. It is quite effective and serves as a remedy for tired legs. But since ginkgo biloba has many properties, let’s describe them:
- It increases memory.
- It reduces blood coagulation.
- It is used as a remedy for people with senile dementia.
- It can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
- It is a natural antioxidant.
One property of ginkgo is the anti-aggregating effect. It works as a blocker so that platelets do not clump together and prevents blood coagulation. This quality can be useful for treating clot formation in people prone to thrombosis or at risk of strokes or cardiovascular accidents.
The antioxidant benefits come from the flavonoids it contains. Infusions with extract from ginkgo tree leaves can counteract aging caused by free radicals. They block them and thus prevent degeneration of skin cells and tissues.
It also has positive results against pulmonary fibrosis, a disease that causes scarring of lung tissue, making it rough and thick.
Ginkgo and memory
It provides oxygen to the brain by increasing the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate, known as ATP, which is essential in cellular energy production. Cells obtain most of their energy supply from triphosphate, and this increases when you take ginkgo in its different forms. This is the basic function of what many people know and refer to as “ginkgo biloba is good for memory”.
It is also positive that it has antioxidant properties. These, in addition to protecting organs such as the heart and skin, slow down neuronal aging. They prevent daily deterioration and improve regeneration as it needs to be produced in smaller amounts. This allows essential nutrients for neurons to be more available.
For Alzheimer’s
Regarding its effectiveness against Alzheimer’s disease, it is not proven. Various studies have been conducted, but none are conclusive. Some even indicate that the effectiveness percentages are very similar between those who used ginkgo biloba medication and a placebo. So caution is advised.
In the Journal of the American Medical Association publication, Steven DeKosky showed unpromising results. There was less than a point percentage difference between the follow-up patients with placebo and those with ginkgolides and ginkgo tree active ingredients.
But regardless of whether these benefits are not confirmed at present, those that act on improving blood flow, cognitive function, memory, and mental processes are well-established. Let’s see the dosage and how you should take it.
Ginkgo biloba for Tinnitus
For ear ringing, the remedy is complicated. There is quite a bit of inaccurate information that confuses people suffering from tinnitus. Ginkgo biloba for tinnitus is not an effective treatment. There are no cases indicated in the scientific literature where the body’s response is favorable to ear ringing.
Another case is when pulsatile or vascular tinnitus is diagnosed. In these cases, ginkgo biloba and tinnitus may have a good result, although there are still no conclusive cases.
The properties to improve the auditory system are related to the improvement of the circulatory system and blood vessels. But not specifically for the ear, as is the case with this type of auditory problem.
If you want to try it, always do so by following the recommended doses and being cautious. Some people may benefit, while others may not feel any improvement in the reduction of ear ringing. For this purpose, you can incorporate the ginkgo supplement or tanakene.
Contraindications
- Treatment with anticoagulants.
- Epilepsy.
- Hepatitis or liver therapies.
- Antidepressants as it directly affects brain function.
- Do not take aspirin, warfarin, or similar medications during ginkgo biloba administration.
- Anticonvulsant medications.
- Pregnant women.
- During breastfeeding.
- Children under 5 years old.
- Avoid the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, ibuprofen, etc.
People in any of the situations mentioned should avoid use unless advised by a specialist. In general, taking ginkgo biloba is very safe and produces many benefits, but it’s always important to monitor the start of its consumption. This is a precautionary measure to follow for any type of medicinal plant.
Side effects
- Dizziness.
- Disorientation.
- Headache.
- Dizziness.
- Rash.
- Stomach discomfort.
Stomach discomfort or intolerance to one of its components are the most common side effects of ginkgo biloba. These are not frequent but are the most likely when they occur.
How to take ginkgo biloba
You should consider the weight of the capsules or the amount of extract in the infusions. Here’s how to take ginkgo biloba with 100 mg capsules:
- Take 1 or 2 capsules a day with a large glass of water.
The best time is during or right after meals. It’s good not to have an empty stomach, so include the supplement with your meal.
Also, continue eating well. Follow a healthy diet, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, so that these and the ginkgo biloba composition enhance each other’s effect. By following the guidelines, the different trace elements are more likely to support each other.
Composition of ginkgo biloba capsules
Always read the leaflet or the label of the package containing the drops or tablets you are going to take. The data we provide is general, and most brands will have very similar values, but it is not guaranteed. The composition of the 100 mg capsules is:
- Flavonoid glycosides 22.3 mg.
- Ginkgolides terpenolactones 6.5 mg.
When you see the product in the store, check the package size, the number of tablets, the weight, and the instructions from your trusted brand.
I am 78 years old. I am taking GINKGO BILOBA 80 mg. at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, one tablet at a time. I believe it has improved my memory. What concerns me is the comment about it possibly affecting the liver. Should I undergo any tests regarding this?
Thank you very much!!
If you don’t have a liver disorder, it shouldn’t worry you. Generally, such indications are for people who have liver disease. However, it’s always good to take breaks every now and then to avoid excesses in the body.
Does Ginkgo Biloba help with anxiety and unblocking ears?
Hello Monica, the properties of Ginkgo or Tanakene are different. For the case you mentioned, other types of natural remedies or specific medications are better suited.