Gingko biloba: the tree that outlived the dinosaurs. I am going to teach you all about one of the world’s most ancient trees. This tree is so old that it is commonly referred to as ‘‘the living fossil’’. In this article, we will go over the history of this tree species, the specifics of it as well as the holistic benefits of ginkgo biloba. Let’s start with the basics!
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Gingko biloba, commonly called ginkgo or maidenhair tree, is a naturally occurring tree species. This very special tree is native to China. But what makes it so special? One reason is that it is extremely ancient. The ginkgo biloba tree is the last living species of the order Ginkgoales. This tree family first appears over 290 million years ago! Ginkgo is literally older than dinosaurs.
The glorious ginkgo biloba often reaches heights of 20-35 meters! These trees are very large and grand. It has an angular crown and long erratic branches. Their roots run deep, allowing them to establish a resistance to potential snow and wind damage. Younger ginkgo trees are often tall, slender and sparsely branched. Their crown becomes broader as the tree ages and matures.
These trees have excellent protection against disease with insect-resistant wood and the ability to form aerial roots, which are roots that grow above the Earth’s surface. Not only are these trees ancient, but they can also live for thousands of years. We have found some specimens that are over 3,000 years old! After millions of years of evolution, these trees are extremely durable, allowing them to experience such a lengthy lifespan.
While these whimsical creatures carry a long legacy with them, they also host an army of benefits that humans are lucky enough to reap. Gingko biloba has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a holistic healing method.
Let’s go over some common benefits of ginkgo biloba.
Benefits of gingko biloba
This ancient and sacred tree has blessed countless humans throughout history with its healing properties. Whole leaves were typically used in Chinese medicine, however, in modern-day usage, ginkgo biloba is most commonly applied by using extracts of the leaves instead.
Many individuals in the west supplement ginkgo extract to reap its benefits. Let’s have a look at some specific benefits you could experience if you supplement ginkgo biloba extracts.
Antioxidants
The abundance of antioxidants in ginkgo may be behind a handful of its health benefits. Ginkgo hosts high levels of terpenoids and flavonoids, two compounds well-known for their strong antioxidant effects, which can neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals.
Combating free radicals can decrease the chances of disease development and the rate of ageing. This makes ginkgo an exceptional longevity supplement for your stack!
Inflammation
Inflammation in the body is a natural response to invasion by a foreign substance and/or injury. When our bodies respond with inflammation, various components of the immune system are recruited to battle the foreign invader and/or to heal the injured region.
Unfortunately, some chronic diseases trigger an inflammatory reaction even when there is no danger in the body, eg illness or injury. Over time, excessive inflammation causes permanent damage to the body’s DNA and tissue. Thanks to many years of research, we can see that ginkgo extracts can reduce markers of inflammation in both animal and human cells during a variety of disease states.
Brain function & well-being
There is a lot of speculation revolving around ginkgo and how it affects brain function. However, the studies we have so far have been limited. Despite the lack of research in this region, countless individuals across the Globe claim to notice a significant boost in not only their brain function but also their well-being.
More often than not, the two are closely linked. A handful of studies with ginkgo extracts support the idea that it may increase mental performance and perceived well-being in healthy individuals. More specifically, a few areas ginkgo seems to positively affect are improved memory, focus, attention span and mood. While many report ginkgo as an effective tool for improving mental clarity and capability, more research is necessary.
Reduce Anxiety
Some research indicates that using ginkgo extracts could reduce common symptoms of anxiety. Some animal studies have observed anxiety symptoms being reduced, which may be attributed to the high levels of antioxidants found in ginkgo. In one particular study, 170 humans with pre-existing anxiety were treated with ginkgo extracts.
Patients were given between 240 mg and 480 mg of either ginkgo or placebo. There was a reported 45% greater reduction in symptoms in the group treated with the higher dose of ginkgo compared to the placebo. Again, it’s still too early to draw any definitive conclusions from the current studies as more data is needed to make such claims.
Headaches & migraines
Applying ginkgo for headaches, and even migraines, is a standard treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. Despite its popular usage for headaches, there is very little research so far. However, depending on the root cause of the headache, it is likely to help. As an example, ginkgo is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects [see above].
If you are struggling with a migraine or headache that is caused by excessive stress, then ginkgo biloba extracts will likely help alleviate your discomfort. Additionally, if your headache is related to reduced blood flow, then gingko’s ability to dilate blood vessels may also decrease your symptoms.
How much gingko biloba should I take?
Please keep in mind that exceeding your daily dose can cause unwanted symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, dizziness and more. Stick to the recommended dose (120-240mg) and try to break your total intake into 2-3 doses, supplementing it throughout the day. This can help avoid negative symptoms from occurring.
Having an allergic reaction is also a possibility. The maximum dosage is 480mg in a 24-hour period. However, a dose that high is not always recommended. Start with 120mg, see what happens and work your way up if necessary. As always, we recommend speaking to a health care provider before introducing any new supplements into your life. Avoid using ginkgo extracts if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Final thoughts
While there is more research needed in order to gain concrete knowledge of how ginkgo works with the human design, we do know that it has been used in humans for many, many years as a successful treatment for a wide variety of complications.
Luckily, there is little risk involved with taking this supplement. That being said, you probably won’t do yourself much harm by supplementing it if you stick to the dosage recommendations stated above.
Just because there isn’t a ton of research backing a supplement/treatment does not mean it should simply be dismissed. Research only occurs where there is funding and funding only occurs where there is some sort of gain for the funder.
As always, do your own research, listen to your mind/body and be open-minded!
