Health Articles > Concerned about age-related cognitive decline?
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Concerned about age-related cognitive decline?
Get up and go with Ginkgo.
Ginkgo biloba is the oldest species of tree in the world and dates back more than 200 million years. This unique tree has a lifespan of up to 1,000 years and has long been recognised as a valuable medicinal herb. Ginkgo is a powerful memory and brain tonic. Numerous clinical trials have shown positive improvements in the areas of cognition, concentration, and memory. It is commonly used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory and cognitive related problems. But how does this herb have these profound effects on the brain? The clinical efficacy is thought to be due to Ginkgo's ability to improve blood circulation and therefore increase oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain. It also prevents oxidative damage to nerve cells, giving them greater longevity. Poor circulation occurs when the blood flow is impaired. This may occur due to a gradual narrowing of blood vessels, resulting in a decrease in blood to important areas of the body. Ginkgo assits blood flow by dilating the arteries, veins and capillaries and encouraging microcirculation to areas such as the hands and feet. Ginkgo may therefore be effective in conditions such as intermittent claudication (a condition of the blood vessels that leads to narrowing and hardening of the arteries that supply the legs and feet). It has also been shown to increase blood flow to the retina and therefore may improve vision. Just as rust forms when iron is exposed to oxygen, human cells are damaged from free radical exposure. Free radicals contribute to health problems including cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. Ginkgo is a powerful antioxidant as the leaves contain two types of chemcials (flavonoids and terpenoids) believed to have potent antioxidant properties. These antioxidants support the body against free radicals and oxidative damage. Scientific studies have proven Ginkgo has valuable healing properties and today is one of the most popular of herbal medicines. |