Ginkgo

Ginkgo

Ginkgo

Formal Name: Ginkgo biloba
Supplement Forms: Leaves, pills, liquid

Recommended Daily Allowance

  • Infants: (0 to 12 Months) N/A
  • Children: (1 to 13 years) N/A
  • Adolescents: (14 to 18 Years) 120 - 240 mg/day
  • Adults: (19 and Older) 120 - 240 mg/day
  • Lactating Women: N/A
  • Pregnant Women: N/A

Notes: mg stands for milligrams.

Additional Information

History

The ginkgo biloba tree is thought to be the oldest existing tree on earth, with fossilized specimens dating back 270 million years. Gingko was originally used in ancient Chinese medicine and cuisine.

Bodily Functions Ginkgo Assists

Some studies indicate that gingko offers a variety of health benefits, including bolstering of the circulatory system, memory, and sexual functions. Gingko is also known to treat dementia and Alzeheimer's in elderly patients. These clinical studies are ongoing, and the results thus far have been mixed. Talk to your health care professional before trying gingko.

Foods High in Ginkgo

Gingko is normally found in pill form as a dietary supplement.

Ailment That Ginkgo Eliminates:
  • Treats asthma
  • Reduces effects of dementia and Alzheimer's
  • Treats heart disease
  • Limits hearing loss and tinnitus
  • Relieves sexual dysfunction
  • Treats Reynaud's disease
Side Effects/Pre-Cautions:
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Dermatitis
  • Palpitations
  • Seizures, in patients who are already prone to seizures
  • Do not take ginkgo if you have had seizures in the past
  • Do not take ginkgo if you have a blood clotting disorder
  • Do not take ginkgo if you use MAO-Is, warfarin, antipsychotic medication, insulin, trazodone, or NSAIDS.