Ginko Leaf Powder Ginko Biloba, 4 oz

Ginkgo Leaf (Ginkgo biloba), also known as the Maidenhair Tree, is an ancient Chinese tree held sacred for its health promoting properties. It is one of the oldest plant species and is also known as the Fossil Tree. The use of its leaves for medicinal purposes was recorded as early as 2800 BC in ancient China. It is used as a tea or decoction.

The botanical name Ginkgo Biloba was assigned by the famous botanist Linnaeus in 1771. It arose from the mixing of the Chinese names for the edible nut of the tree, Silver Almond and White Nut, by the Japanese, yielding yinguo (silver nut), which the Japanese pronounced roughly as ginkgo. The leaves form two lobes, hence the species name biloba.

Ginkgo leaf tea was used to enhance a clear mind and improve the power of concentration. Modern research has confirmed that the ginkgo flavone glycosides and the terpene lactones do indeed produce these results, increasing circulation to the brain and other parts of the body as well as exerting a protective action on nerve cells.

The unique terpene lactone components found in ginkgo are known as ginkgolides and bilobalide. Ginkgolides may improve circulation and inhibit platelet-activating factor. Bilobalide protects the cells of the nervous system. Recent animal studies indicate that bilobalide may help regenerate damaged nerve cells.

One double blind study found that ginkgo biloba could help people with macular degeneration, an oxidation-related disorder causing decreased or lost vision. Ginkgo’s antioxidant activity in the brain and central nervous system may help prevent age-related declines in brain function. The brain and central nervous system are particularly susceptible to free radical attack. Free radical damage in the brain is widely accepted as being a contributing factor in many disorders associated with aging, including Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical studies have shown positive results in pre-senile and senile dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and memory impairments.

Modern standardised concentrated extracts of Ginkgo are marketed for the treatment of circulatory disorders. Recent studies suggest that ginkgo may be beneficial in treating cerebral vascular insufficiency. Additionaly, Ginkgo may be beneficial for Premenstrual syndrome; Depression; Impotence, and altitude sickness.