Go Ginkgo - 11 September 2009 

Ginkgo biloba is the oldest living tree species.  A single tree can live as long as 1,000 years and grow to a height of 40 metres. It has short branches with fan-shaped leaves and inedible fruits that produce a strong odour. The fruit contains an inner seed, and there has been a report of a human poisoning from ingesting the seed.

What you get from Ginkgo

More than 40 components isolated from the ginkgo tree have been identified, but only two are believed to be responsible for the herb’s beneficial effects in humans – flavonoids and terpenoids

Flavonoids (such as quercetin and rutin) have potent antioxidant effects. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels and retina from damage.

Terpenoids (such as ginkgolides) improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the ‘stickiness’ of platelets.

There has been a great deal of research conducted with standardised ginkgo extracts.  These extracts generally contain at least 24-32% flavonoids, and 6-12% terpenoids.  To ensure the best results from a gingko supplement, it is generally recommended to use one that has been similarly standardised.

Eye problems

The flavonoids found in ginkgo may help halt or lessen some retinal problems (that is, problems to the back part of the eye).

Brain Health

Ginkgo is widely used in Europe for treating dementia.  Its use is primarily due to its ability to improve blood flow to the brain and because of its antioxidant properties.

The evidence that ginkgo may improve thinking, learning, and memory in people with Alzheimer’s disease has been highly promising.

Memory Impairment