The seed of Ginkgo biloba has been used for approximately 3000 years in China for it''s curative powers. The extract of Ginkgo biloba has been studied for its effectiveness in the treatment of Acrocyanosis, Alzheimer's disease, Cerebral atherosclerosis, Cerebral insufficiencies, Cochlear deafness, Dementia, Depression, Menopause, Peripheral and cerebral circulatory stimulation, Peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud's syndrome, Retinopathy, Senility, Short-term memory loss, Tinnitus, Vascular Diseases, and Vertigo.  

Ginkgo biloba is our oldest species of tree. It is estimated to have lived some 200 million years ago. It is the only surviving species of the family Ginkgoaceae. It is a native of the Far East where the tree was brought back from near extinction through its cultivation for medicinal uses. It was brought to America in the late 1700''s and has primarily been used here as an ornamental.
This is a very hardy, dioecious tree with light green fan shaped leaves. It can reach heights up to 125 feet and is extremely hardy, as it is resistant to many insects, diseases and pollution. Female trees produce fruit in the autumn months. This fruit is plum shaped and orange / tan in color. The leaves and inner seed of the fruit have been reported as having medicinal qualities, however the fruit's pulp is considered toxic and should be handled with care.
It is not considered an herb to grow yourself for medicinal usage, as the quantities to obtain the potency levels needed are quite large. It has also been reported as reducing blood viscosity. It''s ability to increase vascular dilation, may help reduce retinal damage due to macular degradation and may reverse deafness caused by reduced blood flow.
The average Ginkgo biloba preparation is a 50:1 extract standardized to 24% of the Ginkgo flavone glycosides. This is made from the leaves and usually extracted with acetone and water. The World wide sales of Ginkgo biloba extract taken from the leaves was reported as reaching an estimated U.S. $500 million in 1991.
Dosages are usually based on the severity of the symptoms and the type of problem. On average administration should last not less than 6 weeks. In very severe cases, at least 8 weeks. However, in cases of tinnitus and vertigo 6-8 weeks is usually considered sufficient.
Ginkgo biloba tea: For adults pour 1 pt. boiling water over ½ ounce leaves. Steep 15 minutes. Take one to two cups in a day.
Extract of Ginkgo biloba is found very useful for Alzheimer's disease; multi-infarct dementia; mental deterioration due to aging; menopausal depression; vascular insufficiency, Peripheral Arterial Occlusive, Vertigo & Tinnitus one capsule of Ginkgo biloba extracts should not be used while taking blood thinning medications such as heparin, warfarin or coumarin derivative. Caution should also be taken with aspirin as anecdotes have been recorded of unfavourable interactions.
Side effects of Ginkgo biloba may be Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: easy bleeding/bruising, fainting, irregular heartbeat, inability to move, muscle weakness, restlessness, seizures, slurred speech, severe headache, weakness on one side of the body, vision problems. A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Principal,
Dayanand Ayurvedic College,
Mahatma Hans Raj Marg, G. T. Road,
Jalandhar-144008 (Pb.)