Gingko biloba Common name: Gingko, Maidenhair tree
Family: Gingkoaceae
Part used: Leaf
Constituents: Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), terpenoids (bilobilides, ginkgolides), bioflavonoids, ginkgolic acid (toxic), proanthocyanidins, amino acids, benzoic acid, sugars, waxes, lactones, sitosterol
Medicinal actions: Energy enhancer, cognitive enhancer, neuroprotective, relaxant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-allergenic, anti-asthmatic, brain flow blood enhancer, circulatory stimulant & tonic, peripheral vasodilator, anti-platelet, antioxidant, bitter, nutritive, uterine stimulant, tissue perfusion enhancing, antispasmodic, anti-thrombotic.
Medicinal uses: Improves brain metabolism of glucose and oxygen and usage of Ach. Promotes blood flow to the brain to improve memory and concentration, cognitive & brain function. In managing Alzheimer’s can serve to enhance cerebral circulation, promote memory and cognition, act as an anti-coagulant and anti-oxidant. It’s strong antioxidant effects can increase energy and be used in allergic inflammatory reactions. Useful in peripheral vascular disease and restricted blood flow for any reason. Can inhibit platelet aggregation, relaxes blood vessels and improves their tone, and can be use topically as an anti-inflammatory.
Pharmacy: Infusion: 1 tbsp/cup, infuse 5 min, TID. Capsules: 250mg, QD-BID. Tincture: (1:5,25%), 2-4ml TID. Note: May take 6 weeks to see effects. Pause 6 weeks every 6 months.
Pharmacology:
Contraindications: Caution when using Ginkgo with patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication such as warfarin and aspirin. Cases of excessive bleeding may also be contraindicated.
Toxicity: Gingko standardized extract use has very low risk. Use of the raw herb, however, can cause complaints. Side effects from the consumption of the leaf: GI discomfort, dizziness; from the fruit/nut: erythema, edema, vessicles, severe GI irritation.
Interactions: With MAOIs, blood thinners, NSAIDs, SSRIs, thiazide diuretics.
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