Ginkgo Biloba has been used medicinally in China for hundreds of years.
This oldest tree in the world contains many valuable components that have a beneficial effect on the human body. They improve mental abilities, regenerate skin cells, improve peripheral circulation.
Ginkgo biloba is not very picky. It develops in slightly shaded places (does not tolerate very strong dimming and wind), as well as in sunny places. Loves light and soil: well-drained, fertile and moist, but does not grow well on sandy ones. After cutting, the tree has no problems with regeneration.
Resistant to: sub-zero temperatures, attacks by pests and parasites, high salinity of the earth, as well as polluted air. Its height can reach more than 20 meters. Ginkgo is grown in gardens, parks and city streets. Its leaves have a very characteristic wide fan shape. The yellow seeds look like plums.
Ginkgo is used in herbal medicine. In China and Japan, the seeds are eaten, such as cooked, and added to meat and vegetable dishes. They are also used in the cosmetics industry. Ginkgo is also planted for ornamental purposes. The growths on these plants are considered a symbol of fertility and fertility.
Rich composition
Ginkgo contains vitamins C and E. Among the bioelements, selenium is worth highlighting. Also present: flavonoids, carotene, phytosterols, terpene lactones, bilobalides, quercetin, kaempferol, rhamnose, terpenes, ginkgolides and flavone glycosides.
The tree also contains: steroids, isorhammetin, camphor oil, glucose, polysaccharides and proanthocyanidins. Substances present in ginkgo: 6-hydroxykynurenic, ginkgolic, vanillic, caffeic, p-coumaric, ferulic and chlorogenic acids.
Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system
Ginkgo extract dilates previously constricted blood vessels. Their structures are additionally strengthened, and the permeability is reduced. This applies to both arteries and veins. The use of ginkgo is recommended for violations of the peripheral blood supply.
The ginkgolides contained in this plant reduce the possibility of platelet aggregation, i.e., they have anticoagulant properties, and also accelerate blood circulation. Ginkgo leaf extract, thanks to the flavonoids contained in it, improves the flow of biological fluids to various organs of the human body, primarily to the heart and brain. The use of an infusion based on this plant can lower blood pressure and prevent the occurrence of serious cardiovascular diseases.
Ginkgo biloba is brain protective
Ginkgo leaf extract has a beneficial effect on brain tissue. First, it protects against hypoxia. It also provides her with a proper blood supply. Animal tests with sesquiterpentrylactone bilobalide in ginkgo have shown a reduction in cerebral edema resulting from ischemia. In vitro studies have shown that the leaf extract of this plant stimulates the production of serotonin as well as dopamine.
Ginkgo extract can be used in the elderly with cognitive impairment. It affects memory and improves concentration. It also has a positive effect on the psyche, improving well-being and reducing mood swings. Recommended for people with Alzheimer’s disease and those suffering from senile dementia.
The substances contained in this plant also activate the synthesis of adrenaline and dopamine. Eating ginkgo biloba minimizes the risk of stroke.
Ginkgo biloba inhibits the aging process of cells in the human body
Ginkgo leaves are rich in flavonoids. These antioxidants effectively fight free radicals and thus protect cell membranes from damage.
It also prevents the occurrence of many diseases and disorders of the various internal organs. Ginkgo extract has anti-inflammatory properties and also prevents platelet activation (PAF factor).
Thanks to this, for example, bronchospasm, various symptoms associated with allergies, as well as dangerous diseases of the kidneys, heart, nervous and respiratory systems can be avoided.
Ginkgo biloba strengthens the immune system and prevents inflammation
The substances contained in this plant affect cell regeneration, so they are often used in cosmetics. They eliminate wrinkles, give the skin a more beautiful and youthful appearance, and also make the skin firmer and more elastic.
Creams containing ginkgo biloba protect against UV rays.
Additional Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba:
- Stimulates the body to remove harmful substances from it.
- Studies in mice have shown that ginkgo reduces the risk of cancer in these rodents.
- Recommended for tinnitus and hearing loss.
- Works well for dizziness.
- Minimizes the appearance of cellulite.
- Ginkgo biloba is recommended for menopausal women as it relieves menopausal discomfort.
- In the old days, ginkgo biloba was used to treat asthma.
- The use of ginkgo helps improve balance when moving.
- Improved blood circulation and the resulting greater blood supply to the cells, as well as improved well-being, contribute to the reduction of erectile dysfunction in men and cause a higher level of libido.
- Included in cosmetics intended for people with couperose skin.
- Phytotherapy recommends using this plant for so-called cold feet syndrome.
This is important to know!
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should first consult their physician before taking ginkgo biloba preparations. It is not recommended for people with allergies to substances contained in the plant, and those who are struggling with blood clotting disorders.
In addition, people who take anti-clotting drugs and those who react to them causing harmful side effects should not take ginkgo.