The natural supplement ginkgo Biloba may be best known for improving cognitive function. However, it has numerous advantages and applications. As an aphrodisiac, for instance, ginkgo can also be used to treat PMS, headaches, migraines, and even anxiety. Through several antioxidants, it also offers general health preventative advantages.
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
The herb ginkgo Biloba, commonly known as maidenhair tree, is used medicinally. Ginkgo trees, one of the world’s oldest tree species, are referred to as “living fossils” because they have endured planetary extinction episodes. Maidenhair trees can survive for far over a thousand years and reach a height of at least 130 feet.
Traditional Chinese medicine has used dried and powdered ginkgo Biloba leaves for thousands of years. Tea was also brewed using dried ginkgo leaves. Ginkgo extracts liquid drops and ginkgo Biloba tablets are now available in health food stores.
5 Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is taken by people for a variety of reasons. The following health advantages of ginkgo Biloba have been discovered through research:
1. Protecting the aging brain
Ginkgo has shown the potential in easing dementia patients’ symptoms, indicating that it might also assist healthy people to stave off neurodegeneration. Researchers concluded that 3 to 6 months of ginkgo Biloba supplementation can enhance cognitive performance in people with Alzheimer’s disease after conducting a meta-analysis of trials involving ginkgo Biloba and Alzheimer’s patients.
2. Treatment of some headaches and migraines
Ginkgo was recommended in traditional Chinese medicine to cure Headache and migraine, however, there is no current research to support this claim. It might function by reducing inflammation and enhancing blood flow to the brain. Ginkgo biloba might not help headaches with other causes, though.
3. Possible Treatment for Anxiety
In 4-week research, 480 mg of ginkgo Sativa per day significantly reduced symptoms compared to a placebo in 107 patients with generalized anxiety disorder. According to a different study, ginkgo’s capacity to modify GABA receptors is what causes these effects.
4. Helps in heart health
The capacity of ginkgo to increase blood circulation accounts for many of its advantages. Ginkgo is said to create channels in the body, allowing “chi” to enter and activate important organs including the lungs, liver, and Brains. Blood arteries typically can’t widen enough in those who are at risk for heart attacks and strokes for blood to circulate.
Participants in research with ginkgo Biloba saw immediate increases in blood flow and a 12% increase in nitric oxide, according to Phytotherapy Research.
5. Fights ADHD
Blood flow to the brain is enhanced by ginkgo Biloba, which increases blood flow to the visual cortex by quantifiable amounts. In a 6-week research on ADHD children, ginkgo Biloba significantly reduced symptoms compared to a placebo. Ginkgo supplements may be helpful for those who have trouble focusing, but they may not improve a brain that is already performing at its best.
