Ingredient sheet: Ginkgo Biloba
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
The Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba L. ) is a species of tree and the only living representative of the family Ginkgoaceae , and the only species in the division Ginkgophyta .
It is an extraordinary tree, often described as a "living fossil", because it is believed to have appeared during the Permian period (-300 million years ago) before the dinosaurs and to belong to one of the oldest known tree species.
Native to Asia, its fruits are notably used in China and Japan as food and medicine.
Chinese medicine already referred to it 2,700 years before our era. The leaf and seed were believed to have properties that improved blood circulation.
What are the biological properties and benefits of Ginkgo?
The leaves contain numerous substances including:
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flavonoids
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terpenes
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sesquiterpene lactones
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ginkgolides
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bilobalides.
Most research on the effects of ginkgo is done with an extract called EGb761 , which contains, by mass, 24% flavone glycosides and 6% lactone terpenes.
There appear to be several potential mechanisms of action, including increased blood flow, antagonism of platelet-activating factors, and prevention of membrane damage caused by free radicals.
It has been tested for its properties in clinical settings: there are numerous clinical studies, particularly on cerebral vascular insufficiency, cognition and the treatment of senile dementia.
It is found in many nootropic supplements with varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the quantity of active ingredients and therefore the quality of the ginkgo biloba extract. It is essential to use ginkgo biloba extracts standardized for flavone glycosides.
Health authorities consider its use to be "traditional" and European health claims are under review.
Ginkgo biloba is not only used in dietary supplements; it is also used as a medicine. Germany, in fact, recently changed its regulations, limiting the use of high quantities of Ginkgo biloba in dietary supplements.
What are the health claims of Ginkgo?
Applications for health claims (ref: 2546, 3768, 4304, 3767, 2261, 3364, 4567, 4707, 2807, 2369) have been submitted to EFSA and are awaiting validation. In accordance with regulations, these claims are available at the manufacturers' discretion and include claims relating to:
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the improvement of cognitive function
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cerebral vascular insufficiency
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circulatory health
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blood circulation
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Improving and maintaining cognitive performance in seniors
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"mental well-being"
And what about Phytocea?
At Phytocea , for its effects on circulatory health and cognitive function, we have chosen to include Ginkgo in the formula of ORetine and ReMind.
ORetine is intended as a food supplement designed, among other things, to support vision and prevent certain pathologies such as AMD or cataracts.
ReMind is a dietary supplement designed to support memory and cognitive abilities. ReMind is a nootropic stack containing vitamins, magnesium, physiologically relevant substances (Phosphatidylserine, Alpha Lipoic Acid), and high-quality standardized plant extracts: Bacopa Monnieri and Ginkgo Biloba.
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What are the contraindications and side effects of Ginkgo Biloba?
Precautions for use
The use of Ginkgo biloba is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and for people under 18 years of age.
Prolonged use without medical advice is not recommended.
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People taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication should refrain from taking ginkgo-based products.
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It is recommended to stop taking ginkgo biloba three to four days before surgery.
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Consumption while taking medication for hypertension is not recommended without medical advice.
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Headaches, digestive problems ( diarrhea , bloating , gas, etc.), as well as allergic reactions may occur after taking it.
Drug interactions of ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo may interact with certain medications, so consulting a doctor or pharmacist is essential in these cases:
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aspirin
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antiepileptics
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proton pump inhibitors
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antihypertensives
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diabetes treatment