Ginkgo biloba refers to an extract made from the leaves of the Gingko biloba tree.

Because it has shown excellent results in improving circulation, particularly in the brain, it has often been used as a memory booster. Research based in Germany has shown that geriatric patients treated with gingko biloba extract achieved improved results on psychometric tests. These same patients receiving gingko biloba extract also exhibited an improved and more positive frame of mind.

In our practice, Ginkgo has helped with vertigo (dizziness) perhaps by improving blood flow to the labyrinth apparatus of the ear. Other research done in England showed that gingko biloba treatments brought about an improvement in adults with mild to moderate memory loss. The accumulated results of studies like these suggest that gingko may have the capability of delaying the onset, or diminishing the memory loss, that invariably accompanies Alzheimer's disease.

In publications by E. Murray ("Gingko Biloba: the Amazing 200 Million Year Old Healer") and D.B. Mowrey ("Herbal Tonic Therapies"), further benefits of gingko biloba are set forth. Gingko biloba extract has shown that in its capacity to ease bronchial constriction, it can limit and ameliorate asthma attacks.

Also, and probably related to gingko biloba's ability to improve blood flow, gingko has been shown to improve male sexual function. Since a number of the conditions that gingko biloba has been effective in treating are also those associated with the aging process, gingko biloba may be the perfect supplement for those getting along in years.

You must check with your doctor before taking Ginko Biloba. It may interfere with blood clotting.