What is Ginkgo Biloba? What is Ginkgo Biloba Extract or GBE?

Contents

• Botanical Description of Ginkgo Biloba and Characteristics of Ginkgo Biloba Extract.
• What is Water soluble Ginkgo Biloba Extract?
• What is 100% Water Soluble Ginkgo Biloba Extract?
• Ginkgo Biloba - What is it?and How does it work? Archeology of Ginkgo Biloba and narrative history.
• Ginkgo Biloba Benefits:More Key Actions and notable functions in brief,Other Uses of Ginkgo biloba.
• Ginkgo Biloba Material:Medicial parts,Dosage and beneficial quantity.
• Chemical and Physical Properties:Standardized ingredients of GBe.
• Application Guide: Therapeutics and Pharmacology,Cautions of Ginkgo Biloba,Remedy and Traditional Uses.
• Safety and Toxicity of Ginkgo Biloba.
• Ginkgo Biloba Pictures.
• How Search engine think about Ginkgo Biloba.
• Ginkgo Biloba Research Update.
• Photo Gallery of Ginkgo Biloba.

Application Guide: Therapeutics and Pharmacology,Cautions of Ginkgo Biloba,Remedy and Traditional Uses.

The first mentioned use of Ginkgo biloba appears in China. Ginkgo leaf is first mentioned in Lan Mao's Dian Nan Ben Cao, published in 1436 during the Ming dynasty. Lan Mao notes external use to treat skin and head sores as well as freckles. Internal use of the leaves is first noted in Liu Wen-Tai's Ben Cao Pin Hui Jing Yao , an imperial commissioned work recorded in 1505. Liu Wen Tai notes use of the leaves in the treatment of diarrhea. The leaves of ginkgo are known in Chinese medicine as bai-guo-ye. Recent clinical reports in modern China suggest that the leaves lower serum cholesterol levels and have some clinical value in angina pectoris.
 In Traditional Chinese pharmacopeia the seeds (with fleshy rind removed) are considered more important than the leaves. The nut, called Pak Ko, is recommended to expel phlegm, stop wheezing and coughing, urinary incontinence and spermatorrhea. The raw seed is said to help bladder ailments, menorrhea, uterine fluxes, and cardiovascular ailments. The powdered leaf is inhaled for ear, nose, and throat disorders like bronchitis and chronic rhinitis. Locally applied boiled leaves are used for chilblains.. The seeds are used as an astringent for the lung, to stop asthma and enuresis.

 Therapeutics and Pharmacology: The ginkgolides present in the leaf help alleviate the adverse effects of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in a number of tissues and organs because they competitively inhibit the binding of PAF to its membrane receptor. Clinical trials have demonstrated that ginkgo preparations are effective in the treatment of arterial insufficiency, particularly in the lower limbs and brain. Patients with intermittent claudication showed significant improvements in pain-free walking time and maximum walking distance. Elderly patients with chronic cerebral insufficiency demonstrated a significant regression of major symptoms including vertigo, tinnitus, headache, short-term memory, vigilance and mood changes. However, heart rate, blood pressure and blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides were unaffected, and the extract had no effect on normal healthy subjects. Ginkgo has been shown to improve glucose utilisation within the brain. It improves the transmission of nerve impulses and increases alertness by increasing the brain's alpha wave rhythms and decreasing theta rhythms. It has a demonstrable effect on the venous system too and is used to treat conditions such as varicose veins.
 Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract alleviates male impotence where the underlying cause is impaired blood circulation to erectile tissue; initial signs of improvement were seen to commence after 8 weeks of Ginkgo biloba supplementation and, after 6 months, 50% of patients had regained potency.
 Recent research has shown that the extract GBE,Ginkgo Biloba Extract from the yellow autumn leaves contains a vitamin that strengthens blood vessels, reduces the production of tissue-damaging free radicals and improves cellular energy. The bioflavonoids protect and maintain the integrity of capillary walls, inhibit lipid peroxidation within cell membranes, stabilise the cell membranes involved in the blood-brain barrier, destroy free radicals and inactivate their formation. Ginkgo has been shown to improve eyesight in senile macular degeneration and to neutralise the effects of oxygen free radicals produced in the eyes.
 In European clinical trials, improvements in allergic responses such as asthma have been observed. Ginkgo is thought to alleviate allergies by inhibiting the activity of eosinophils, an action attributed to Ginkgolide B. Its ability to reduce inflammation may make it valuable in the future for conditions such as autoimmune problems, multiple sclerosis and organ transplants. Some anti-tumour activity against sarcoma in mice has been recorded.
 Ginkgo leaves are a Chinese herb that has been used much more in the West than in its homeland. Over five hundred scientific studies on the chemistry, pharmacology and clinical effects of gingko leaves have been conducted by European researchers over the last 20 to 30 years. The majority of studies on ginkgo leaf extract have involved a product produced by a German/French consortium, referred to in the scientific literature as EGb761.

Ginkgo standardized extracts have been widely used in Europe for a wide variety of clinical conditions associated with age-related physical and mental deterioration. These include:

 1) Alzheimer's Disease / age-related dementia: Ginkgo extracts appear to be capable of stabilizing and, in some cases, improving the cognitive performance of patients with schizophrenia. Based on a quantitative analysis of the literature there is a small but significant effect of 3 to 6 month treatment with 120 to 240 mg of Gbe on objective measures of cognitive function in Alzheimer's Disease ( Oken, Oregon Health Sciences University, 1998 ). The last publication ( Le Bars, Memory Centers of America, New York, Jan 2002 ) indicated that " a treatment effect favorable to EGb could be observed with respect to cognitive performance and social functioning regardless of the stage of dementia, whether mild or moderately severe. However, the relative changes from baseline measured at endpoint depended heavily on the severity at baseline. Improvement was observed in the group of patients with very mild to mild cognitive impairment, while in more severe dementia, the mean EGb effect should be considered more in terms of stabilization or slowing down of worsening, as compared to the greater deterioration observed with placebo". Further research in the area will need to determine if there are functional improvements and to determine the best dosage. Additional research will be needed to define which ingredients in the ginkgo extract are producing its effect in individuals with AD. A recent study makes clear that EGb treatment may enhance the effectiveness of antipsychotic drugs and reduce their extrapyramidal side effects( Zhang, Yale University School of Medicine, 2001 ).

 2) Cardiovascular Disease: Treatment with Ginkgo biloba extract lowers fibrinogen levels and decreases plasma viscosity ( EGb can limit oxidative stress )

 3) Cerebral vascular insufficiency and impaired cerebral performance: Administration of EGb has been shown to improve a variety of conditions associated with cognitive functions, particularly for memory loss, attention, alertness, vigilance, reaction times and depressive mood. A recent australian study indicates significant improvements in speed of information processing working memory and executive processing attributable to the EGb ( Stough C, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, 2001 ).

 Other therapeutic applications include:

 1) Congestive symptoms of premenstrual syndrome: Ginkgo extract was effective for the treatment of the congestive (particularly breast symptoms) and neuropsychological symptoms of PMS.

 2) Intermittent Claudication:  A recent meta-analysis ( Pittler, University of Exeter, 2000 ) found a significant difference in the increase in pain-free walking distance in favor of Ginkgo biloba (weighted mean difference: 34 meters ). In studies using similar methodological features (ergometer speed: 3 km/h, inclination: 12%) this difference was 33 meters in favor of Ginkgo biloba.

 3) Vertigo / Equilibrium Disorder / Prevention of altitude sickness.

 4) Tinnitus (ringing in the ear). An overview ( Holstein, Karlsruhe, 2001 ) of results of 19 clinical trials shows a statistically significant superiority of treatment with the Gbe 761 as compared with placebo or reference drugs applied of periods of 1 to 3 months. " Therapeutic success was not directly correlated with either the genesis or the duration of tinnitus. However, investigations of prognostic factors revealed that short-standing disorders have a better prognosis, so that better results can be expected from early-onset treatment."

 5) Liver Fibrosis:  Ginkgo biloba was shown to be effective in arresting the development of liver fibrosis associated with chronic hepatitis B.

 6) Macular degeneration:  In spite of the small population sample, a statistically significant improvement in long distance visual acuity was observed in patients with macular degeneration.

Precautions of Ginkgo Biloba:Ginkgo Biloba Extract

 The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of botanical medicine.
 GBE,Ginkgo Biloba Extract is considered to be safe and side effects are rare. In a few cases, gastrointestinal upset, headaches, skin reactions, and dizziness were reported.
 Because gingko,Ginkgo Biloba Extract decreases platelet aggregation (stickiness), there is some concern that it may increase risk of intracranial (brain) hemorrhage. In fact, there have been several reports of bleeding complications associated with ginkgo use. However, it is not clear whether ginkgo or another factor (such as the combination of ginkgo and blood-thinning medications including aspirin) caused the bleeding complications.
 Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using ginkgo preparations Ginkgo Biloba Extract. In addition, ginkgo use should be discontinued at least 36 hours prior to surgery due to the risk of bleeding complications.
 Do not ingest Ginkgo biloba fruit.

Cautions of Ginkgo Biloba:Ginkgo Biloba Extract

 Do not exceed the dosage of the seeds since it can lead to skin disorders and headaches.
 Cases of contact dermatitis from the fruit have been reported.
 Because of its antithrombotic activity, ginkgo should not be taken with blood thinners and should be discontinued two weeks before any surgery. In the event of emergency surgery, it is well advised that the physician be notified in order to avoid any bleeding problems during the procedure.
 Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract should also be avoided by those with such bleeding disorders as hemophilia, or those at risk for hemorrhagic stroke, especially those who smoke or use amphetamines or cocaine.
 Those who are pregnant or lactating should also avoid this herb.

Ginkgo Remedies:Ginkgo Biloba Extract

 Seeds are roasted and used in China for coughs and asthma, and for urinary problems. They are pleasant tasting to eat, although the husk must first be removed from the seeds.
 Leaves, fresh or dried, are used to improve circulation, especially to the brain, and to maintain a plentiful blood flow to the central nervous system. They are the base to make tinctures, tablets, and fluid extracts.
 Tablets are taken for poor circulation and memory loss.
 Decoctions of the seeds are used to treat wheezing or, when combined with ma huang, elecampane, or mulberry leaves, to treat asthma or severe and persistent coughs.
 Fluid extractions from the fresh leaves are used for asthma and in Europe, and is marketed for treating cerebral arteriosclerosis and peripheral circulatory diseases.
 Tinctures from the leaves are used with such other cardiovascular herbs as greater periwinkle and limeflower for circulatory problems or with kings clover for venous disorders.
 Infusions are taken to treat arteriosclerosis and varicose conditions.
 Washes are used on varicose ulcers or hemorrhoids.

Traditional Uses:

 
 Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract is commonly used to preserve memory, treat mild depression, and reduce symptoms of early Alzheimer's Disease and other cognitive disorders, improve circulation and treat leg pains due to reduced blood flow, reduce the risk of blood clots, treat such inner ear disorders as tinnitus and vertigo, and treat allergies, asthma, and inflammatory disorders. Benefits usually begin about three weeks after initiating the herb, but six weeks is not uncommon; and improvement may not be noticed for several months, with benefits increasing over time.
 The primary benefits of ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract seem to derive from its ability to promote the dilation of blood vessels, which improves blood flow throughout the body. This prevents the buildup of fluid (edema), reducing a wide range of disorders affecting the legs, brain, eyes, ears, and other organs.
 In addition,Ginkgo Biloba Extractt seems to inhibit the formation of blood clots and functions as an antioxidant, reducing the cellular damage caused by free radicals. It may also affect such brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) as norpinephrine, serotonin, monoamine oxidase, acetylcholine, and nitric oxide, as well as inhibiting the synthesis of corticosteroids.
 In China, the seeds are used to relieve wheezing and to lessen plegm, as well as treating vaginal discharge, a weak bladder, and incontinence. The leaves are also used for treating asthma.
 Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract has been shown to enhance energy and reduce depression.
 Today, Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract is the best selling herbal medicine in France and Germany, where it is taken on a daily basis by millions of people, and likely the most useful herb for the treatment of senile dementia.

Possible Interactions:Ginkgo Biloba Extract

 
 If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract without first talking to your healthcare provider:

 Anticonvulsant medications:
 High doses of Ginkgo biloba could decrease the effectiveness of anticonvulsant therapy in patients taking carbamazepine or valproic acid to control seizures.

 Blood-thinning medications:
 Ginkgo has blood-thinning properties and therefore should not be used if you are taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, such as aspirin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, heparin, ticlopidine, or warfarin.

 Cylosporine:
 Ginkgo biloba,Ginkgo Biloba Extract may be beneficial during treatment with cyclosporine because of its ability to protect cell membranes from damage.

 Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs):
 Ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract may enhance the effects (both good and bad) of antidepressant medications known as MAOIs, such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

 Papaverine:
 The combination of papaverine and ginkgo,Ginkgo Biloba Extract may be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients who do not respond to papaverine alone.

 Thiazide diuretics:
 Although there has been one literature report of increased blood pressure associated with the use of ginkgo during treatment with thiazide diuretics, this interaction has not been verified by clinical trials. Nevertheless, you should consult with your healthcare provider before using ginkgo if you are taking thiazide diuretics.

 Trazodone:
 Additionally, there has been a report of an adverse interaction between ginkgo and trazodone, an antidepressant medication, that resulted in an elderly patient going into a coma

Reference:

• What is Ginkgo Biloba? What is Ginkgo Biloba Extract or GBE?

This article written and edited via herbalist of MDidea Extracts Professional. They run a range of online descriptions about this herb,including general information related and summarized updating discoveries from findings of professional scientisits this field related.Describe style aimed to form a useful detecting literature space where the intertwined threshold and related questions raise out and visualize themselves.

♣ last edit date:08th,Oct.2010.