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Used for centuries for its potential cognitive benefits. Its natural compounds have been shown to improve memory, concentration, and overall brain function
What is Ginkgo biloba?
Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal supplement that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Its leaves are used to make extracts that are believed to improve cognitive function, memory, and circulation. In recent years, Ginkgo biloba has gained widespread attention as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues. In this post, we will explore the scientific evidence behind the benefits of Ginkgo biloba.
Ginkgo biloba is a tree native to China that can live for more than a thousand years. Its leaves contain a variety of compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and organic acids, which are believed to have beneficial effects on the body.
What are the benefits of Ginkgo biloba?
Improved cognitive function and memory
Ginkgo biloba is commonly used to improve cognitive function and memory. Several studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract can improve attention, memory, and executive function in healthy adults (1,2).
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Ginkgo biloba has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties may be responsible for the plant’s ability to improve circulation and protect the brain from oxidative damage (3).
Reduced anxiety and depression symptoms
Some studies have suggested that Ginkgo biloba may have a beneficial effect on anxiety and depression symptoms. For example, a randomized controlled trial found that Ginkgo biloba extract was as effective as a commonly prescribed antidepressant medication in reducing symptoms of depression (4).
Improved vision and eye health
Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve vision and eye health. One study found that taking Ginkgo biloba extract improved visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in people with age-related macular degeneration, a condition that can cause vision loss (5).
Scientific References:
Kaschel R. Specific memory effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in middle-aged healthy volunteers. Phytomedicine. 2011;18(14):1202-1207.
Kennedy DO, Haskell CF, Wesnes KA, Scholey AB. Improved cognitive performance in human volunteers following administration of Ginkgo biloba extract: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2007;22(4):265-271.
Luo Y, Smith JV, Paramasivam V, et al. Inhibition of amyloid-beta aggregation and caspase-3 activation by the Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2002;99(19):12197-12202.
Woelk H, Arnoldt KH, Kieser M, Hoerr R. Ginkgo biloba special extract EGb 761 in generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder with anxious mood: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Psychiatr Res. 2007;41(6):472-480.
Richer S, Stiles W, Statkute L, et al. Double-masked, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of lutein and antioxidant supplementation in the intervention of atrophic age-related macular degeneration: the Veterans LAST study (Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial). Optometry. 2004;75(4):216-230.
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