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Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is found mostly in China but popular in countries such as Europe, Asia, France and the US. One of the most common benefits of this herb is treating memory loss such as in the case of Alzheimer's disease. This is because the herb acts as an antioxidant, relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow to the brain. Other functions of ginkgo biloba include the ability to help with asthma, dementia, glaucoma and other issues.

Ginkgo biloba has been shown to control cholesterol, ear, eye and certain skin and vascular diseases. This herb improves the health of the retinas in the eyes by increasing blood flow in the capillary walls, repairing oxidative stress damage and has been shown to prevent eye disease such as cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Another one of the more impressive benefits of ginkgo biloba is its anticancer proprieties. Ginkgo biloba prevents DNA damage to cells from oxidation and regulates gene behavior that promotes cancer cell growth. Other benefits are the relief of sexual dysfunction, impotency, irregular heartbeat, sinusitis, vertigo, leg ulcers and varicose veins.

Although this herb comes with many benefits, this does not free it of certain side effects which include headaches, anxiety, diarrhea, temper problems, dizziness, skin irritations, minor rashes, gastrointestinal upset and nausea. Not all people using this herb are affected by these side effects.

If you are taking certain anticoagulant medications such as aspirin or warfarin, this herb should be avoided as it could result in a higher rate of hemorrhaging. Other medications to avoid while using this herb are anticonvulsants, antidepressants, blood sugar reducers, Cylosporine, Thiazide diuretics and antihypertensive medications.

This herb will not be as effective if taken in low doses, but if taken in higher does, the odds of producing some of the side effects above along with others are more significant. There is a proper dosage for this herb and it is a daily dosage between 120 and 240 mg a day. Also, you should split this dosage into 3 rather than take it all at once.

The many benefits of ginkgo biloba far outweigh the side effects, but it is still advised that you consult with your doctor before taking this herb. However, if you are looking to increase your overall mental clarity, this might be the perfect herb for you.