Ginkgo, also known as ginkgo biloba, is a tree that produces leaves which are included in natural ginkgo health products. Various ginkgo supplements are used throughout the world, and some reported ginkgo benefits include improvements of blood circulation problems, memory disorders and other medical conditions. Researchers have studied this natural health product, and they continue to examine its uses and safety. Flavonoids and terpenoids are natural substances in ginkgo leaves that may be responsible for some ginkgo benefits.
Users of ginkgo biloba supplements have reported ginkgo benefits such as a positive effect on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Improvement in cognitive functions such as thinking, memory and learning may occur with ginkgo use. Some people have reported ginkgo effects such as improvement of depression and social interactions. Ginkgo benefits for Alzheimer’s disease patients may include a delayed onset of dementia and improvement in daily functioning.
Products containing ginkgo may improve blood flow in some cases and may reduce pain in the legs from intermittent claudication. People with intermittent claudication typically have pain while walking due to restricted blood flow in their leg arteries. Patients with diminished blood flow in their legs may be able to walk longer with the help of ginkgo supplementation in some instances. Some doctors may recommend prescription drugs that provide a stronger benefit for intermittent claudication patients than they receive from ginkgo biloba.
In some cases, people have reported ginkgo benefits related to eye problems. Glaucoma patients have experienced improved vision with regular use of ginkgo in some cases. Flavonoids in ginkgo biloba may improve health conditions of the eye that are related to the retina. Age-related macular degeneration is a retinal condition that often causes blindness as patients with this condition get older. The use of ginkgo may help people with age-related macular degeneration keep their eyesight for a longer period of time.
Ginkgo benefits may be outweighed by possible negative side effects of this herbal supplement. In some cases, ginkgo can have a blood-thinning effect, and internal bleeding has occurred in some users of this herbal product. People who use ginkgo often lower their risk of bleeding if they discontinue its use prior to scheduled surgery or dental work. Seizures may occur with ginkgo use, especially with epilepsy patients. Other side effects that have been reported by ginkgo biloba users have included dizziness, upset stomach and headaches.
People who combine ginkgo biloba with prescription drugs may experience some unwanted drug interactions. Ginkgo can enhance the effects of antidepressant drugs and blood-thinning medications. Individuals who use ginkgo may develop lower blood pressure, and the combined use of this herbal product with blood-pressure medications may cause abnormal effects on blood pressure. Many people who take prescription drugs for medical conditions may benefit from a conversation with a doctor about the individual risks of using gingko biloba.
