Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species. Most of the ginkgo products are made with the extract prepared from its leaves, very particular and recognizable by their fan shape. The most useful components of ginkgo biloba are believed to be flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant qualities, and terpenoids, which help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the “stickiness” of platelets.
Table of Contents:
What is Ginkgo Biloba and in What Form can we Take It
Ginkgo is commonly available as a tablet to take orally, as an extract, capsule, or leaf for tea. We advise you not to eat raw or roasted ginkgo seeds as the seeds can be poisonous. Ginkgo biloba is also used as a food supplement to improve mental function and cognitive performance. A number of clinical studies have shown that ginkgo biloba can improve memory and cognitive function in both healthy adults and those with mild cognitive impairment.
Ginkgo biloba: Safety and Side Effects
When used orally in moderate amounts, ginkgo appears to be safe for most healthy adults. However, Ginkgo can cause:
•Headache
•Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Upset stomach
• Constipation
• Allergic skin reactions
If you suffer from epilepsy or are prone to seizures, avoid ginkgo. If you have a bleeding disorder or are pregnant, don’t take ginkgo. The supplement could increase the risk of bleeding. If you are planning to undergo surgery, stop taking ginkgo two weeks earlier for the same reason. Ginkgo biloba may also interfere with diabetes management. If you take ginkgo and have diabetes, you need to consider the possible interactions of Ginkgo biloba.