Ginkgo Bilova
1. Contains Antioxidants
Ginkgo contains potent antioxidants, which fight the damaging effects of free radicals and may be behind most of its health claims.
2. Can Help Fight Inflammation
Some specific conditions in which ginkgo extract has shown to reduce inflammation include:
Arthritis
Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
Cancer
Heart disease
Stroke
Prostatitis
3. Improves Circulation and Heart Health
Ginkgo can increase blood flow by promoting the dilation of blood vessels. This may have applications for the treatment of diseases related to poor circulation.
4. Reduces Symptoms of Psychiatric Disorders and Dementia
It cannot be concluded that ginkgo treats Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, but it might help in some cases. The chances of it helping seem to increase when used alongside conventional treatment.
5. Improves Well-Being and Brain Function
Some research shows that ginkgo may improve mental performance in healthy people, but the data is inconsistent.
6. Can Reduce Anxiety
Some research shows that ginkgo may help treat anxiety, though this is likely due to its antioxidant content.
7. Can Treat Depression
Ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory effects give it the potential to treat depression. More research is needed.
8. Can Treat Migraines and Headaches.
Because of its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, ginkgo may be an effective treatment for some types of headaches.
9. Can Improve Asthma and COPD Symptoms
Ginkgo may treat symptoms associated with respiratory diseases because of its anti-inflammatory effects. More research is needed.
10. Reduces Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms
Preliminary research indicates that ginkgo may help treat both the physical and psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
One study in 85 college students revealed a 23% reduction in reported PMS symptoms when consuming ginkgo
11. Treats Sexual Dysfunction
Some sources indicate that ginkgo may treat sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction or low libido.
Ginkgo has the ability to improve blood levels of nitric oxide, which improves circulation via the dilation of blood vessels
As a result, ginkgo may also be useful for treating various symptoms of sexual dysfunction by improving blood flow to those areas of the body.
Some research has investigated using ginkgo to treat sexual dysfunction caused by the use of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs). Results indicated that ginkgo wasn’t any more effective than a placebo in these cases.
Additionally, there may be an interaction between ginkgo and SSRI medications, which could render them less effective.
One study evaluated the use of ginkgo to increase sexual desire and contentment in women who were concurrently undergoing sexual psychotherapy
The combination of ginkgo and therapy were effective over a longer term compared to a placebo, but supplementing with ginkgo alone was not.
The rationale for using ginkgo to treat sexual dysfunction makes sense, but research does not support it at this time.
12. Ginkgo Bilova for Prostate Enlargement
Ginkgo possesses anti-inflammatory, blood flow-enhancing, and free radical scavenging effects. Considering strenuous exercise can reduce BPH risks, we hypothesize Ginkgo + exercise (Ginkgo + Ex) could be beneficial to BPH.
Potential Side Effects
It’s important to talk to your doctor before including ginkgo in your routine.
For most adults, the risk associated with taking ginkgo is relatively low, but there are cases in which ginkgo could cause serious harm.
If you are allergic to plants that contain alkylphenols or taking certain medications, you should not take ginkgo.
Possible side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Headaches
Stomach pain
Rash/allergic reaction
Ginkgo has the potential to interact unfavorably with certain medications. Some interactions could increase the risk of bleeding.
Possible adverse medication interactions include:
Blood thinners (Warfarin, aspirin)
SSRIs/MAOIs/antidepressants (Prozac, Zoloft)
NSAIDS (ibuprofen, naproxen)
As with any supplement, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking ginkgo biloba and stop use if you develop any negative side effects or adverse medication interactions.
Dosage and Supplement Forms
Ginkgo biloba is commercially available in the following forms:
Capsules
Tablets
Liquid extracts
Dried leaves/tea
Most of the current research reflects results used with purified ginkgo extract. Do not eat raw ginkgo seeds, as they are poisonous.
One of the limitations of the studies on ginkgo is that they did not use standardized dosing.
However, the bulk of the evidence seems to support the safety of taking 120–240 mg divided into several doses throughout the day.
There is no clearly defined maximum dosage, but it’s wise to start with a lower dose and work your way up to ensure tolerance.
Most research has not evaluated doses greater than 600 mg per day, so it’s probably not a good idea to exceed this amount.
Remember, it can take up to six weeks before you begin to notice any effects.