What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo Biloba is one of the oldest living tree species, and its leaves have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Today, extracts from the Ginkgo leaves are commonly sold as dietary supplements.
What are the potential benefits of taking Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo Biloba is most commonly taken for its potential effects on cognitive function and circulation. Some potential benefits that have been studied include:
Memory and Cognitive Function: May help support memory, concentration, and mental clarity, particularly in older adults. Some research has looked into its potential role in mild cognitive impairment and dementia, though results are mixed.
Blood Circulation: May help improve blood flow by helping to widen blood vessels and reduce blood viscosity. This can potentially benefit conditions related to poor circulation in the legs (intermittent claudication) and possibly the brain.
Antioxidant Properties: Contains compounds (flavonoids and terpenoids) that act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
What does "Ginkgo Biloba 12000" mean?
The "12000" typically refers to the equivalent amount of dry Ginkgo Biloba leaf used to produce the concentrated extract in each serving of the supplement. It does not mean that each serving contains 12000 mg of the active Ginkgo Biloba extract. The actual amount of standardized extract per serving is usually much lower, commonly around 240 mg, which is derived from the larger quantity of raw leaf material. This is a common labeling practice for concentrated herbal extracts to indicate potency based on the starting material.
Are there any side effects associated with Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo Biloba is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when taken at recommended dosages. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as:
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Upset stomach
Constipation or diarrhea
Allergic skin reactions
Who should avoid taking Ginkgo Biloba?
Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have bleeding disorders, or are taking blood-thinning medications should generally avoid Ginkgo Biloba or use it only under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional.
