It is amazing to think how our ancestors actually can live in the past when there is still so much information about medicine that is yet to be known at the time. Elderly that live long years are usually associated with them practising traditional herbs and what is offered by mother nature in their life. Fortunately, modern medicine nowadays is able to make discoveries on this traditional medicine and these discoveries help to preserve our ancestor’s healthy way of living. There are over 50 000 medicinal plants that have been identified all around the world and ginkgo being one of them.
Ginkgo biloba originated from China and was commonly used in traditional ancient Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is described as a large tree with fan-shaped leaves and is known as one of the oldest trees to ever exist in the world. This plant herb was exclusive for the royal family but nowadays it is promoted as a health supplement such as the ginkgo tablet. Most health supplements emphasise on processing the leaf to be made into extract. Some people also use its seed and nuts in cooking as garnishes or dessert.
Since ginkgo has been around for thousands of years and is further emphasised as a health supplement, you must be wondering what makes this plant so special for our health. Ginkgo is rich in carbohydrates, protein, fat and phytochemicals. This makes it a perfect edible plant. A person’s energy level may be improved greatly with the use of ginkgo and prevent one from getting easily fatigue. Flavonoids and terpenoids contained in the ginkgo are proved to be a great antioxidant. These antioxidants help to improve the brain function and the heart as it helps promote blood flow to these organs. Ginkgo also helps to preserve good eyesight and prevent eye disorders such as glaucoma. Mental health issues causing depressive symptoms can be greatly supported by the use of ginkgo. Frequency and intensity of a vertigo episode can be greatly reduced when ginkgo is incorporated into the diet. Studies also show ginkgo help to reduce symptoms in asthmatic patients. Lastly, ginkgo can help maintain a healthy skin complexion as it helps with skin regeneration. A person with vitiligo may benefit from ginkgo as it helps to halt further depigmentation of the skin.
A dose of ginkgo with 240 mg per day is considered safe. Just like with any other medicine and supplements, excessive intake of ginkgo might pose serious risk to the consumer. Side effects include seizure particularly in people with epileptic history, heart palpitation, upset stomach, constipation, headache, dizziness and allergic skin reactions which is marked by redness, swelling and itching skin. In some cases, side effects such as bleeding from organs may occur. Those who are on medication such as the anticoagulant (warfarin) or antiplatelet (aspirin, clopidogrel) should not be taking ginkgo supplements as it can increase chances of spontaneous organ bleeding. Therefore, it is important for those taking any health supplement to take it accordingly as instructed by healthcare professionals or as described on the product label. If there is any doubt, do talk to a healthcare professional before consuming any health supplements.
In essence, ginkgo is indeed a powerful plant. Either its leaf, seed or nuts, one can be sure to gain benefits from it. Ginkgo extract has been studied for long years and the discovered benefits sure are promising for the whole body and the mind. No wonder this ginkgo plant was only available for the royal family as it is indeed an exquisite plant due to its goodness. Know about our hajj vaccination package
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ginkgo
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26268332/
https://www.mims.com/malaysia/drug/info/ginkgo%20biloba?mtype=generic