Effect of administration of the standardized extract of Ginkgo biloba leaves on learning, memory and exploratory behavior was estimated in water maze and hole-board tests. Rats (18-month old) received for three months at doses: 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg b.w. per day. After completion of the behavioral experiment, concentrations of neurotransmitters were estimated in selected brain regions. ANOVA demonstrated significant differences in the content of monoamines and metabolites between the treatment groups compared to the control. The increased level of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the hippocampus and 5-HIAA (5-HT metabolite) in the prefrontal cortex correlated positively with the retention of spatial memory. Positive correlation between platform crossings in SE during the probe trial and neurotransmitter turnover suggest improvement of spatial memory. Long-term administration of Ginkgo biloba extract can improve spatial memory and motivation with significant changes in the content and metabolism of monoamines in several brain regions.

Reference : Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.

a) MEMORY ENHANCEMENT, DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER'S-

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM), "Gingko is widely used in Europe for treating dementia." Doctors started to use it because they thought it improved blood flow to the brain, but more recent studies indicate that it may protect nerve cells from damage in Alzheimer's.

There is some evidence indicating that ginkgo can help people with dementia, although more studies are required to confirm this.

b) IMPROVE EYE HEALTH-

The therapeutic properties of the ginkgo biloba plant are said to include treatment for blood disorders and memory problems, enhancement of cardiovascular function and to improve eye health.

c) PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM FREE REDICALS-

Gingko biloba contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, antioxidants that provide protection against oxidative cell damage from harmful free radicals. In this way, antioxidants are believed to help reduce the risk of cancer.

d) ANXIETY-

Ginkgo may help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research7, found that people with generalized anxiety disorder who took ginkgo experienced better anxiety relief than those who took a placebo. However, people who take Xanax for anxiety should not use ginkgo, because ginkgo may reduce the drug's effectiveness.

e) Risks of Gingko Biloba-

As with any medication, care is needed to prevent interactions with other drugs and other risks. Even ibuprofen combined with Gingko can increase the risk of internal bleeding.

Patients with blood circulation disorders or individuals on anticoagulants, such as aspirin, are at risk of experiencing undesirable effects after taking ginkgo.

Those taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) as antidepressants should not take ginkgo as it inhibits monoamine oxidase, reducing the effectiveness of the medications.

Combining the two may also increase the risk of a potentially fatal condition known as serotonin syndrome. Examples of SSRIs are Prozac, or fluoxetine, and sertraline, also known as Zoloft.

Gingko can also exaggerate both the good and bad effects of another type of antidepressant, known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Ginkgo leaves contain long-chain alkylphenols, which are highly allergenic. People who are allergic to poison ivy and other plants with alkylphenols should completely avoid taking ginkgo. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) warns that people should not eat the ginkgo fruit or seed.

For More information > Click here

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding :

Ginkgo is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth during pregnancy. It might cause early labor or extra bleeding during delivery if used near that time. Not enough is known about the safety of using ginkgo during breast-feeding. Do not use ginkgo if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Infants and children :

Ginkgo leaf extract is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth for a short time. Some research suggests that a specific combination of ginkgo leaf extract plus American ginseng might be safe in children when used short-term. Do not let children eat the ginkgo seed. It is LIKELY UNSAFE. The fresh seeds have caused seizures and death in children.

Bleeding disorders :

Ginkgo might make bleeding disorders worse. If you have a bleeding disorder, don't use ginkgo.

Diabetes :

Ginkgo might interfere with the management of diabetes. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely.

Seizures :

There is a concern that ginkgo might cause seizures. If you have ever had a seizure, don't use ginkgo.

Deficiency of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) :

Ginkgo might cause severe anemia in people have G6PD enzyme deficiency. Until more is known, use cautiously or avoid using ginkgo if you have G6PD deficiency.

Infertility :

Ginkgo use might interfere with getting pregnant. Discuss your use of ginkgo with your healthcare provider if you are trying to get pregnant.

Surgery :

Ginkgo might slow blood clotting. It might cause extra bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using ginkgo at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

For More information > Click here

REFERENCE-

1) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-333/ginkgo
2) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263105.php