Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is an ancient medicinal plant that contains powerful antioxidants such as flavonoids, ginkgolides and bilobalide. These components help protect cells from free radical damage and help improve blood circulation and tissue metabolism. Using Ginkgo Biloba can be beneficial for people of all ages due to its antioxidant properties, its ability to eliminate inflammation, improve circulation and heart muscle health, and its potential benefits in fighting dementia, improving mental performance, and eliminating depression.

Ginkgo Biloba is also recommended for preventing deterioration of brain function in the elderly, helping to rehabilitate people with cerebral ischemia, improving vision, helping with bronchial asthma attacks and normalizing sleep, memory and brain function in the elderly.

Despite the numerous useful properties, Ginkgo biloba has contraindications, including the risk of hemorrhagic complications when using preparations with a high concentration of ginkgo acids. The use of products based on it is not recommended for people with epilepsy, who have had a myocardial infarction, prone to bleeding, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, as well as in the presence of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.

When using Ginkgo Biloba-based products, it is important to strictly follow the instructions and avoid overdosing to prevent possible side effects.

Indications Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is used to improve various aspects of health due to its unique properties. Here are the main indications for its use:

1. Prevention of brain function decline in the elderly: Ginkgo Biloba helps improve memory, concentration and other cognitive functions, which is especially important for maintaining mental alertness in the elderly.
2. Help with cerebral ischemia and stroke rehabilitation: Due to its properties to improve blood circulation, Ginkgo Biloba may aid in recovery from strokes and other conditions associated with impaired blood supply to the brain.
3. Vision Improvement: Ginkgo Biloba extract may have a positive effect on visual function, helping to treat or prevent certain eye diseases.
4. Treatment and prevention of bronchial asthma: Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Ginkgo Biloba can be used in the complex therapy of bronchial asthma.
5. Improved circulation and cardiovascular health: Ginkgo Biloba Extract helps improve blood circulation, which is important for preventing and treating heart and vascular disease.
6. ReducingInflammation: Ginkgo Biloba is used to reduce inflammation in the body, which can be helpful in treating a variety of inflammatory conditions including arthritis and gastritis.
7. Anti-Depression and Mood Improvement: Due to its ability to stimulate the production of the hormone adrenaline and improve cerebral blood flow, Ginkgo Biloba may help fight depression and improve mood.
8. Potency Enhancement: Ginkgo Biloba extract is also used to improve sexual function due to its ability to improve blood circulation.

Release form

1. Tablets and capsules: This is the most common form of ginkgo biloba. Tablets and capsules contain standardized Ginkgo biloba extract, which is usually made from the leaves of the plant.
2. Extract: Ginkgo biloba may also be available as a liquid extract, which can be taken in drops or added to other beverages.
3. Tea: Dried Ginkgo biloba leaves can be used to brew tea.
4. Oil: Some companies produce ginkgo biloba seed oil, which can be used in aromatherapy or as a massage oil.
5. Extractfor external use: In some cases, Ginkgo biloba may be used in the form of an extract for external use as a component of cosmetics or ointments.

Pharmacodynamics

Ginkgo biloba has a complex pharmacological profile and affects various physiological processes in the body. Its pharmacodynamic action is due to the presence of two main groups of active components in the leaf extract: flavonoids and terpenoids (including ginkgolides and bilobalides). These are the key aspects of the mechanism of action of Ginkgo biloba:

Improved blood circulation

• Vasodilation: Ginkgo biloba promotes dilation of blood vessels, which improves blood flow, especially in the brain and extremities.
• Antagonism to PAF: Ginkgolides are potent antagonists of Platelet-activating factor (PAF), which is involved in thrombosis and inflammation. Inhibition of PAF helps to improve microcirculation and prevent thrombus formation.

Antioxidant action

• Free radical protection: Flavonoids present in Ginkgo biloba extract have antioxidant properties, through which they neutralize free radicals and protect cell membranes from oxidative damage.

Neuroprotective action

• Nerve Cell Protection: Bilobalide and ginkgolides help protect neurons from damage caused by ischemia or toxic substances, and may also improve recovery from neuronal damage.

Effects on neurotransmitters

• Neurotransmitter regulation: Ginkgo biloba can affect the neurotransmitter system, including increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which has a positive effect on cognitive function, mood and attention.

Improved cognitive function

• Cognitive Enhancement: Through a combination of the above effects, Ginkgo biloba may help improve memory, concentration, and other cognitive functions, especially in the elderly and in conditions of impaired brain circulation.

While many studies support the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba for improving mental function and circulation, the data on its efficacy and safety is still a matter of scientific debate.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Absorption: After oral administration of Ginkgo Biloba extract, the active ingredients may be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption time may vary depending on the specific form of the drug.
2. Metabolism: The flavonoids contained in Ginkgo Biloba may undergo metabolism in the liver. However, the exact details of metabolism may vary for different components.
3. Distribution: After absorption, the active ingredients are distributed throughout the tissues of the body. Ginkgo Biloba can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain.
4. Excretion: Metabolites of Ginkgo biloba are usually excreted mainly through the kidneys. Excretion time may vary depending on individual factors and the state of renal function.

Dosing and administration

The dosage and method of use of ginkgo biloba may vary depending on the form of release and the individual characteristics of the patient. However, here are the general recommendations for use:

1. Tablets and capsules: It is generally recommended to take 120-240 mg of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract throughout the day, divided into several meals. The dosage may vary depending on the purpose of use and individual tolerance.
2. Extract: For liquid extract, the dosage is usually listed on the package or can be given by your doctor or pharmacist. It is usually taken by adding it to water or other beverages.
3. Tea: If you are using ginkgo biloba in the form of tea, it is recommended that you follow the preparation instructions on the package or recipe. The tea is usually prepared by steeping the dried leaves in boiling water and infusing for a few minutes.
4. Oil: For ginkgo biloba seed oil, generally follow the directions on the package or consult an aromatherapist.
5. Extract for external use: For ointments or cosmetics, follow the instructions on the package or consult your healthcare professional's instructions.

Use Ginkgo biloba during pregnancy

The use of Ginkgo biloba during pregnancy raises certain questions and is based on limited research. In general, taking Ginkgo biloba during pregnancy is not recommended without consulting your doctor. Here's why:

1. Insufficient data: There is currently limited research on the safety of Ginkgo biloba during pregnancy. This means that there is not enough data to make a definite statement about its safety for the fetus.
2. Possible Risk: Some studies will point out the potential risk of taking Ginkgo biloba during pregnancy due to its effects on blood flow and antiplatelet properties.
3. Interaction with other medicines: Ginkgo biloba may interact with other medicines that a pregnant woman is taking. This may lead to unwanted effects or changes in the level of effectiveness of other medicines.
4. Risk of allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to Ginkgo biloba, which also poses a risk to the pregnant woman and fetus.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: Ginkgo Biloba-based products are not recommended for people with a known allergy to the ingredients of the product.
2. Prone tobleeding: Because of Ginkgo Biloba's ability to affect blood clotting, taking it may be dangerous for people who are prone to bleeding or taking anticoagulants.
3. Pregnancy and lactation: Due to the lack of data on the safety of using Ginkgo Biloba during pregnancy and lactation, its use is not recommended.
4. Recent myocardial infarction and epilepsy: Ginkgo Biloba is not recommended for people who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction or those diagnosed with epilepsy.
5. Gastritis and peptic ulcer: In the presence of these diseases should be cautious about taking preparations based on Ginkgo Biloba, because they can affect the condition of the mucous membrane of the GI tract.
6. Surgical interventions: Due to potential effects on blood clotting, it is recommended to stop taking Ginkgo Biloba a few days prior to planned surgeries or dental procedures.

Side effects Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, while considered relatively safe when used properly, can cause a number of side effects in some people. It is important to remember that reactions to the product, as with any drug or supplement, can vary greatly depending on individual body characteristics. The following are the most commonly reported side effects:

1. Gastrointestinal disorders: including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.
2. Headaches and dizziness: especially at the beginning of the dose or when the dose is increased.
3. Allergic reactions: skin rashes, itching, and in rare cases, anaphylactic shock. People allergic to willow poison or latex may be more prone to allergic reactions to ginkgo.
4. Bleeding: Ginkgo biloba may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals taking anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) or drugs that affect blood clotting (e.g., aspirin).
5. Drug Interactions: Ginkgo may interact with various medications, altering their effectiveness. Such drugs include antidepressants, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and others.
6. Dizziness and blurred consciousness: especially in elderly patients or at high doses.
7. Palpitations: tachycardia may occur as a side effect, especially in people with heart disease.

Overdose

Ginkgo Biloba overdose can lead to various unwanted effects and complications. Since the drug contains active ingredients such as flavonoids and terpenoids, taking more than the recommended dose can be dangerous. Here are some possible consequences of an overdose:

1. Headaches: Worsening of headaches or migraines.
2. Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or stomach pain.
3. Palpitations or arrhythmias: This is due to possible effects on the cardiovascular system.
4. Hypertension (high blood pressure): There may be an increase in blood pressure.
5. Dizzinessand drowsiness: A feeling of dizziness or drowsiness may occur in overdose.
6. Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or swelling may occur.
7. Bleeding: In rare cases, an overdose of Ginkgo Biloba may cause bleeding due to its effect on the blood clotting system.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Anticoagulants (direct and coumarin anticoagulants): Ginkgo biloba may increase the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin, which may lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution and monitor blood clotting values when using Ginkgo biloba and anticoagulants concomitantly.
2. Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): Ginkgo biloba may accelerate the metabolism of antiepileptic drugs in the liver, which may reduce their effectiveness.
3. Cytochrome P450 inhibitors: Some drugs, such as erythromycin or ketoconazole, may reduce the metabolism of Ginkgo biloba, which may lead to an increase in its effects.
4. Blood pressure-lowering medications: Ginkgo biloba may increase the effects of blood pressure-lowering medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and beta-adrenoblockers, which can cause hypotension.
5. Drugs that increase the risk of bleeding: When Ginkgo biloba is used concomitantly with other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin), an increased risk of bleeding may occur.

Storage conditions

Storage conditions of ginkgo biloba may vary depending on its form of release (tablets, capsules, extract, etc.) and manufacturer. However, in general, it is recommended to follow the following recommendations:

1. Storage in a cool and dry place: Ginkgo biloba is best stored in a cool place protected from direct sunlight and humidity. Storage temperatures may vary depending on the specific product, but it is generally recommended to store at room temperature.
2. Packaging: Follow the instructions on the packaging provided by the manufacturer. Ginkgo biloba is usually packaged in containers that protect from moisture and light to preserve its properties throughout its shelf life.
3. Avoid Moisture: It is important to avoid contact of ginkgo biloba with water or moisture as this may alter its quality and effectiveness.
4. Observing the expiration date: Make sure you check the expiration date of ginkgo biloba and use it before the expiration date. After the expiration date, the product may lose its effectiveness.
5. Keepaway from children: Keep ginkgo biloba out of the reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.