What Is Ginkgo Biloba?

Health Benefits

Individuals have claimed for centuries that ginkgo biloba has numerous health benefits. Research has suggested ginkgo biloba can improve some symptoms that occur in individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease, vascular disease, and other forms of dementia. Evidence has also been identified that suggests ginkgo biloba helps improve vision in individuals who have incurred damage to their retina as a result of diabetic retinopathy. Gingko leaf has proven in many studies to help ease certain symptoms of peripheral arterial disease where a patient has poor blood flow in their legs. Some individuals have claimed ginkgo biloba can help alleviate some symptoms that occur with premenstrual syndrome. Schizophrenia patients may benefit from taking ginkgo biloba along with their conventional antipsychotic medications because it increases the effectiveness of that medication and can decrease some of its side effects. Individuals have also claimed taking ginkgo biloba can reduce symptoms associated with balance problems.

However, ginkgo biloba does come with the risk of certain side effects. Learn about these now.

Potential Side Effects

Ginkgo biloba can produce numerous adverse side effects, just like any other health supplement or medication. The most common adverse side effects of gingko biloba include headaches, dizziness, stomach upset, and skin reactions. There is also an increased risk of an individual experiencing events that occur due to abnormal internal bleeding. Because taking ginkgo biloba increases an individual's risk of bleeding, it is advised that anyone who has a planned dental procedure or surgical procedure to stop taking the supplement between one and two weeks before the procedure. All physicians and dentists should be informed when patients are taking ginkgo biloba in the case of an emergency. Individuals affected by frequent seizures or any form of epilepsy should not take ginkgo biloba because it has shown to increase seizure risk. Because the effects of taking ginkgo biloba on an unborn child are unknown, individuals who are breastfeeding or pregnant should not take this supplement. The fruit part of the ginkgo biloba tree and its seeds should not be consumed, as any seed of the plant used in a supplement has been carefully prepared.

Get familiar with potential medication interactions with ginkgo biloba next.