Ginkgo: benefits, contraindications and how to take it

Ginkgo: benefits, contraindications and how to take it

Known by the name of Ginkgoor as Ginkgo biloba -For its scientific name- we are facing a bush tremendously popular in many Asian countries, where it has a prominent position in Traditional Medicine. It is a tree native to China and Japan, and has more than 200 million years old. It is also known with the curious names ofForty shields tree or as thepagodas tree.

Be that as it may, its name derives from the Chinese wordyah-chio, which means "duck foot" precisely because of the curious shape of the leaves of this tree, which are very reminiscent of the appearance of this animal's leg. Later this name became "ginkyo" (Japanese word), and finally "Yin Kuo" which means "apricot of gold". It is known scientifically with the name ofGinkgo bilobaL., and belongs to the Ginkgoáceas family.

There is no doubt that we are facing a very powerful tree. And it is that besides being the only survivor of absolutely all the geological and climatic changes that have taken place on earth, it seems that it has resisted the different and more serious contaminations of the 20th century.

The most important benefits of Ginkgo biloba

Good for circulation

The action of this tree seems to be directly related to the synergy between its different compounds, being especially effective in alleviating circulatory problems, as it is known that its active ingredients allow dilation of veins, arteries and capillaries, as well as improving microcirculation and the viscoelasticity of the blood, something that prevents the formation of clots. So, it becomes an excellent preventive against the formation of clots.

This quality is found thanks to the presence of flavonoids, which exert a vasodilataroa action on the different walls of both arteries and capillaries. In turn, they also prevent platelets from sedimenting on the inside of blood vessels.

Ginkgo is ideal for poor circulation of the legs that tend to cause with excessive tiredness and also pains. In fact, some studies have found that a regular treatment based on this plant is useful to relieve circulatory diseases that affect the legs especially.

Soothes tired legs

The poor circulation of the legs influences the appearance of an annoying and uncomfortable tiredness, which is usually known as tired legs.

In this sense, ginkgo extract is precisely useful when it comes to relieving tired legs as a result of poor blood circulation.

Excellent for memory and learning

In addition, various studies have shown that ginkgo has a beneficial effect on the faculties of learning and memory, to the increase of cerebral circulation, and to the contribution of oxygen and essential nutrients. Thus It is very useful to improve behavior and learning.

Moreover, it is especially recommended for the treatment of memory problems and alterations of cognitive functions (associated with aging). This quality is found by the presence of a component known by the name of bilobalide, and that acts as a brain protector against senile dementia.

Reduces the discomfort of premenstrual syndrome

If you suffer from premenstrual syndrome every month, you may be interested in opting for ginkgo biloba as a natural treatment. And it is that at act as a vasodilator help in a positive way when it comes to decrease menstrual pains.

Relieves depression in the elderly

It is common for many older people to suffer from depression as a result of poor brain irrigation. Given the Ginkgo improves blood circulation especially in some parts of the brain, as there is a greater contribution of blood to the cells present in this important and vital organ of our body, depressive processes improve.

In summary: properties of ginkgo

• Recommended in the treatment of memory problems.
• Useful in the treatment of alterations of cognitive functions.
• Positive effect on learning and memory.
• Relieves circulatory problems.
• It dilates the veins, arteries and capillaries.
• It improves both the microcirculation and the viscoelasticity of the blood.
• Prevents the formation of clots.

Contraindications of ginkgo to take into account

The Ginkgo, like any other plant with medicinal action, presents a series of contraindications that must always be taken into account before proceeding with its consumption. The most important are the following:

• Consumption of anticoagulant medications: since ginkgo has a vasodilatory action, its use is not recommended in people who follow a medical treatment based on anticoagulants.
• Pregnancy and lactation: its consumption in pregnancy can cause premature births or greater hemorrhages during childbirth. On the other hand, it is not advised during breastfeeding because its safety has not been proven.
• Before surgeries: precisely because of its vasodilatory action, its use is not advised when a surgery is pending.

How to take ginkgo?

Can take ginkgo in capsules or in droplets. You can find both products in herbalists and specialized dietetics stores. Of course, it is advisable to follow the doses indicated on the package, since a higher consumption of the recommended amounts can cause nervousness, vomiting, diarrhea and problems falling asleep.

On the other hand, it is common that headache occurs during the first days of treatment with ginkgo biloba. However, these symptoms tend to disappear little by little. This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist. ThemesMedicinal plants