- Improves blood flow through the micro-capillaries
- Can enhance memory and cognitive function
- Helpful for disorders resulting from decreased blood flow
- May assist in lessening effects of dementia
- Improves walking ability in individuals with intermittent claudication
Ginkgo Biloba is one of the most popular herbal supplements on the market today. In several European countries it is a widely prescribed medicine. Use of ginkgo biloba can be traced as far back as 2800 B.C. in Chinese medicine. While the seeds, leaves, and fruit have been used, most extracts today focus on the leaves which are harvested in the fall as they turn yellow. Scientists have identified more than 40 compounds in ginkgo biloba but the benefit to humans comes from two: flavanoids and terpenoids.
The most important action of ginkgo biloba appears to be its ability to dilate micro-capillaries, the smallest part of the circulatory system. Opening the micro-capillaries affects all the organs but particularly benefits the brain. The dilation results in better blood circulation and increased oxygen. Traditionally ginkgo has been used to treat circulatory problems and to enhance memory. Recent clinical evidence appears to support both of these actions.
Ginkgo biloba has been called the “brain herb” because of the belief it aids in memory and overall brain function. A recent review of multiple, well-planned studies confirmed that ginkgo biloba significantly improved memory and cognitive function when compared to a placebo. The studies looked at individuals with mild memory difficulties and not Alzheimer’s disease.
In Europe, ginkgo biloba is used extensively to treat dementia. The enhanced blood flow to the brain is believed to account for the improvement. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease also experienced improvement in several categories after taking ginkgo biloba.
Intermittent claudication is a disorder affecting the limbs. A decrease in blood flow to the legs results in severe pain while walking. Patients taking ginkgo biloba were able to walk significantly farther with a decrease in pain.
Ginkgo Biloba Liquid by Vitabase is made from certified organically grown leaves of the highest quality. Each fresh or recently dried leaf is extracted through cold percolation or maceration using the purest de-ionized water.