This popular herbal medicine, derived from one of the oldest species of tree on earth, is widely considered to sharpen memory and concentration, especially in older people.

WHAT IT IS
The medicinal form of the herb is extracted from the fan-shaped leaves of the ancient ginkgo biloba tree, a species that has survived in China for more than 200 million years. (The leaves are double- or bi-lobed, hence the name "biloba.") A concentrated form of the herb, ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), is used to make the supplement. Commonly called ginkgo, GBE is obtained by drying and milling the leaves and then extracting the active ingredients in a mixture of acetone and water.

WHAT IT DOES
Ginkgo may be beneficial for the following:

• Studies indicate Gingko Biloba has the ability to increase circulation which may lead to enhanced memory
• May improve delivery of nutrients and disposal of waste products from the brain
• May improve circulation
• Helps rid the body of free radicals
• Increases blood flow to the nerve rich areas like the eyes and ears

Ginkgo may also have beneficial effects on both the circulatory and the central nervous systems. It increases blood flow to the brain and to the arms and legs by regulating the tone and elasticity of blood vessels, from the largest arteries to the tiniest capillaries. It also acts like aspirin by helping to reduce the "stickiness" of the blood, thereby lowering the risk of blood clots. Ginkgo appears to have antioxidant properties as well, mopping up the damaging compounds known as free radicals and aiding in the maintenance of healthy blood cells.

Ingredients

Other ingredients: Vegetable capsules, stabilized rice bran, magnesium stearate

Dosage

Suggested Use: Take one capsule, one to three times daily. Take consistently each day for best results.

To support normal memory and circulation, take 1 capsule daily. To support normal blood flow to the brain, take up to 3 capsules daily.

It commonly takes four to six weeks, and in some cases up to 12 weeks, to notice the herb's effects. You can take ginkgo with or without food.

Cautions

Generally, ginkgo biloba is considered safe for long-term use in recommended dosages.

In rare cases, ginkgo may cause irritability, restlessness, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, though these effects are usually mild and transient. People starting the herb may also notice a headache during the first day or two of use. If side effects are bothersome, discontinue it or reduce the dosage.

WARNING: People who take prescription blood-thinning medications or who regularly take over-the-counter painkillers should consult a health care provider before using ginkgo, as the combination can result in internal bleeding.

As always, consult your physician before taking supplements, especially if you have a medical or psychiatric condition, or are pregnant or lactating.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Availability
Usually ships the same business day.

Manufacture
Supplementspot