Ginkgo
Introduction Ginkgo biloba dates back about 200 million years. It has survived mainly in Oriental temple gardens, where it is highly prized for its medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine. Active ingredients of Ginkgo include flavone glycosides, bioflavins, sitosterol, lactones and anthocyanin. One of the most important active ingredients, ginkgolide, has been clinically shown to be just as effective as standard pharmaceutical drugs in treating irregular heart beats. Ginkgo Biloba dates back about 200 million years! It has survived mainly in Oriental temple gardens, where it is highly prized for its medicinal properties in Chinese Traditional Medicine. One of the most important active ingredients, ginkgolide, has been clinically shown to be an effective cardiac muscle tonic. Recent studies have demonstrated this herbs ability to support cardiac health. It is particularly renowned for its content of flavonoids, terpenoids, and organic acids. Researchers have studied its benefits in supporting all phases involved in sexual desire. An open study on 63 subjects found that women were more responsive to the sexually-enhancing effects than men, with relative success rates of 91%! Ginkgo biloba was reported to have a positive effect on all four phases of the sexual response cycle: desire, excitement (lubrication), orgasm, and resolution (afterglow). Theories for the results included encouraged circulation to genitals and norepinephrine receptor-induced effects on the brain. Ginkgo extracts are the most widely used, and among the least natural„herbal products in North America and Europe today. Most of the ginkgo capsules you find on the market are actually extracts of ginkgo leaves made by bathing them in hexanol and evaporating the toxic solvent away to make a concentrated slurry of a single healing chemical. Constituents Gibberellin, cytokinin-like substances, ginkgolic acid, bilobol, ginnol, aspartine, calcium. Parts Used Leaves and nuts. Leaves are considered "sweeter" and have a gentle effect d are primarily used for cerebral circulation. Typical Preparations Teas, capsules, and extracts. Summary The natural herb has a long history in Chinese medicine. Ginkgo nuts and ginkgo leaves are used to treat lung conditions (rather than mental conditions). They are sweet, astringent, and non-heating; they stop "leakage" of fluids into air passageways without causing heat, increased heartbeat, or excitability. Recent research into the plant has discovered a range of medicinally active compounds in the leaves and this has excited a lot of interest in the health-promoting potential of the plant. In particular, the leaves stimulate the blood circulation and have a tonic effect on the brain, reducing lethargy, improving memory and giving an improved sense of well-being. They have also been shown to be effective in improving peripheral arterial circulation and in treating hearing disorders such as tinnitus where these result from poor circulation or damage by free radicals. The leaves contain ginkgolides, these are compounds that are unknown in any other plant species. Ginkgolides inhibit allergic responses and so are of use in treating disorders such as asthma. Eye disorders and senility have also responded to treatment. The leaves are best harvested in the late summer or early autumn just as they begin to change colour. They are dried for later use. Precautions The leaf is not recommended for persons currently taking blood thinning medications.For nuts- do not use if you have a current outbreak of poison ivy or contact dermatitis, since the increased circulation to the skin caused by the herb could spread the toxin.
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
|
