Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgophyta): Is believed to have nootropic properties, and is mainly used as a memory and concentration enhancer, and anti-vertigo agent.

Preliminary studies suggest that Ginkgo may be of benefit in multiple sclerosis, showing modest improvements in cognition and fatigue without increasing rates of serious adverse events in this population.

Ginkgo has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine, where the seed is most commonly used. These uses are mentioned in more detail later.

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 fruit is antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, digestive, expectorant, sedative, vermifuge. The fruit is macerated in vegetable oil for 100 days and then the pulp is used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis. The cooked seed is antitussive, astringent and sedative. It is used in the treatment of asthma, coughs with thick phlegm and urinary incontinence.

The raw seed is said to have anticancer activity and also to be antivinous. It should be used with caution, however, due to reports of toxicity. The cooked seeds stabilize spermatogenesis.

From the Spanimax List: "15 Top Herbs"

References:

• Chinese Materia Medica; Stuart. Rev. G. A.
• Ginkgo. Elixir of Youth; Hobbs. C. Botanica Press.
• Medicinal Plants of China Reference Publications; Duke. J. A. and Ayensu. E. S.
• Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas; Yeung. Him-Che. Institute of Chinese Medicine.