Wok Fusion Flavor

Why is ginkgo used?
The ginkgo is the oldest surviving species of tree, traceable back to 300 million years. Although it died out in Europe during the Ice Age, ginkgo continued to flourish throughout other parts of the world, most notable throughout Asia. It has been used throughout history for medicinal purposes – supposedly with the ability to cure an astonishing array of illnesses. This has lead to the idea that ginkgo is some kind of “miracle drug.” Unfortunately, many studies have disproved many of these initial ideas of ginkgo – it seems as though that ginkgo, while beneficial for a small number of ailments, is probably best used in tea flavoring.

The oldest use of ginkgo dates back to the Chinese. In traditional Chinese herbology, tea made from ginkgo was used to cure a variety of ailments such as sexual dysfunction, asthma, joint problems, and others. In making these cures, the Chinese used only the ginkgo’s seeds, choosing to discard or cook the actual leaf. Beginning in the 1950s, however, German researchers began to investigate the medicinal properties of ginkgo leaf extracts rather than the actual seeds. These researchers formed the basics of many ideas about ginkgo.

Today, ginkgo is one of the most widely used products in the world. In Germany, ginkgo is the most widely prescribed herb for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other mental diseases. In the US, ginkgo is fast becoming one of the most popular dietary supplements. The cause for this heightened popularity has to do with many companies marketing its ability to improve brain functions and memory. It is believed to stimulate circulation and oxygen flow to the brain, which can improve problem-solving and enhance memory. Other “secondary” effects of ginkgo are improved circulation to the limbs, improved communication, orientation, and mobility, and improved symptoms of vertigo and tinnitus.

What is ginkgo used for?
Ginkgo is used to treat a variety of mental illnesses including Alzheimer’s Disease, intermittent claudication, non-Alzheimer’s dementia. It also is used to enhance memory and mental functions.

Other “secondary benefits” include treatment for depression, glaucoma, macular degeneration, PMS, vertigo, altitude sickness, sexual dysfunction, and tinnitus.

What do scientists say about ginkgo?
Many of the “secondary” effects such as improved circulation and improved communication are highly debatable. While there are a variety of studies that seem to show that ginkgo is effective in treating these problems, these studies are also marked by a number of problems such as a having a low sampling number or using incorrect processing methods. In addition, there seem to be an equal number of studies that completely disprove many of these effects.

Ginkgo’s biggest confusion lies in its ability to treat Alzheimer’s and improve memory. Put simply, research here seems to be conflicting. In fact, there seem to be an equal number of studies that prove and disprove ginkgo’s ability to improve mental functions. The general statement concerning ginkgo is that there is a benefit in improving mental functioning. How much of a benefit, however, seems to be in debate.

So, does ginkgo actually work?
Concerning many of the “secondary benefits”, most studies seem to show that ginkgo is NOT effective in any way. Even the benefits that might be real, most research conducted seems to be shady, at best.

In terms of improving mental functions, researchers recommend more investigation is needed to determine if ginkgo is really effective. Depending on the study (and the scientist), ginkgo may or may not be effective. Even if it were to be found effective, scientists still do not understand how ginkgo works on brain cells and have not identified effective dosages or potential side effects.

Should I take ginkgo?
People should consult with their family doctors before using ginkgo. It’s especially important for the elderly to consult with doctors before taking them, as they are more susceptible to the dangers of small changes in the body. Unfortunately, while many different preparations for ginkgo biloba extract are available over the counter, they vary in content and active ingredients. As such, there is not a specific dosage amount that can be recommended as safe or effective. Because of ginkgo’s unknown effects on the body, many scientists recommend not using ginkgo biloba for one month after six months are of daily dosage. This month should be used to determine if ginkgo is actually having a positive effect on your body.