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Definition

Ginkgo biloba is an ancient Chinese tree whose leaves are used medicinally.

Description

The Ginkgo tree is the world's oldest tree dating back about 200 million years. As far back as 1436 the extract from this tree had been used by the Chinese to treat asthma, chilblains (an inflammation caused by exposure to cold) and swellings. In Germany Ginkgo is currently used by some for the treatment of cerebral dysfunction with the following symptoms: difficulty in memory, dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), headaches, and emotional instability coupled with anxiety. Additionally, it has been used in Germany for the treatment of hearing loss due to cervical syndrome and peripheral arterial circulatory disturbances. Western herbalists believe that ginkgo has demonstrated remarkable pharmacological actions on different parts of the circulatory and nervous system (arteries, capillaries, veins and heart). Its effects include increased energy, improved glucose utilization, inhibition of platelet aggregation, promotion of radical scavenging activity, increased blood flow to the brain and improved nerve signal transmission.

Questions

What are your views on using alternative treatment methods such as ginkgo biloba? What are the side effects? What type of preparation (dry bulk, capsules, or tincture) do you recommend? What dosage? What is the cost?