Ginkgo Biloba: A Healing Herb for the Mind

November 30, 2011 hgrubbs Herbs

Ginkgo biloba is a medicinal herb that has been used in holistic practice for thousands of years, but it has recently gained popularity in the Western world. Since it isn’t necessary (although it is recommended) to go to a holistic practitioner to get your herbs, supplement manufacturers have begun advertising their products direct to the consumer. This is good because it raises awareness, but it can be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. For example, certain medications can interact with this herb and cause potentially harmful side effects. Although a doctor or pharmacist may be able to advise you on this, a holistic practitioner is most familiar with the herb and its safety.

So what exactly is Ginkgo Biloba?

This herb comes from one of the most ancient trees known to man. It is a unique species that is unlike any other tree thriving on this planet. It tolerates pollution better than most trees, so you’ll often find Ginkgos lining the city streets. For medicinal purposes, an extract is made from the leaves of the ginkgo tree. Throughout history, ginkgo extract has been used to treat various conditions, such as bronchitis, asthma, fatigue and tinnitus, but today it is most commonly used to treat memory loss and related issues.

Now, on to the good stuff: How Ginkgo Biloba Works

Ginkgo biloba works by helping increase blood flow to the brain. Since all of the vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals and oxygen are carried through the blood, increased blood flow means increased nutrition making its way into the brain. Since ginkgo biloba is one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs in the United States, a lot of scientific studies have been done on this herb. Many studies have found that it is, in fact, helpful for enhancing your memory, but it won’t reduce your chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease. So, if you notice yourself becoming forgetful (as long as it’s not the early stages of Alzheimer’s), ginkgo can be very effective.

Who Should Take Ginkgo Biloba?

If you have a job that requires you to be on point constantly, ginkgo biloba might work for you. For example, you might be a paralegal in a busy law firm or a cop working in a high-crime area. Even if you’re just a college student studying for exams, ginkgo may give you the memory boost you need to ace that exam.

If you’re considering taking any herbal medicine, you should really consult a holistic healthcare professional, or your medical doctor (at the very least) – especially if you are taking other medications or herbs. Remember, not all herbs interact well with each other either, so the safest bet is to consult someone who has experience in this field.

alternative medicine, ginkgo biloba, medicinal herbs, memory