Ginkgo Biloba Benefits for Eye, Brain and Circulatory Health
Ginkgo biloba - a name that might sound amusing at first, but this herb is no laughing matter.
Known as the oldest surviving tree species on earth, ginkgo biloba boasts a rich history steeped in Traditional Chinese Medicine and profound healing benefits, including for eyes and for women.
The Timeless Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
Imagine this: you’re a woman navigating the complexities of modern life - balancing career, family, and personal well-being.
The demands can be overwhelming, but what if there was a natural solution that could help support your cognitive function, enhance your circulation, and even protect your vision? Ginkgo biloba is that natural solution, and its benefits for women are as compelling as they are diverse.
Historically, ginkgo biloba was revered for its ability to enhance blood circulation and oxygen flow, particularly in adults over 50. However, its benefits extend far beyond just maintaining general bodily health.
For women, this herb is essential for keeping both the mind and body sharp. Whether you're battling the brain fog that often accompanies menopause or seeking additional support for age-related eye conditions, the amazing ginkgo biloba benefits should not be overlooked.
Ginkgo Biloba: A Living Fossil
To truly appreciate ginkgo biloba's healing benefits, it's worth understanding its origins.
These trees are living fossils, dating back over 200 million years, with a resilience that's nothing short of extraordinary.
Ginkgo biloba trees can live for up to 1,000 years, underscoring their robustness and ability to withstand adverse conditions including pollution and fire. Their robust trunks and fan-shaped leaves stand as silent witnesses to centuries of human history.
Originating from China, these trees have spread across the globe, finding homes in urban parks and cityscapes alike. In cities across the world, these trees often go unnoticed, but their leaves hold the key to ginkgo biloba's profound benefits.
While the seeds within the fruit are toxic and not to be ingested, the leaves are where the magic happens. The dried leaves and extracts are what make ginkgo biloba supplements such a powerful addition to your daily health regimen.
The Science Behind Ginkgo Biloba Benefits for Women
So, what makes ginkgo biloba so beneficial, particularly for women? The answer lies in its ability to enhance blood circulation and support cognitive function.
- Blood Circulation: Ginkgo biloba leaf extract contains over 60 bioactive compounds, including a high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which reduce blood viscosity, inhibit platelet aggregation and improve blood flow.
- Cognitive Function: Research has shown that ginkgo biloba can improve memory and cognitive abilities, making it a popular adjunctive treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. But even if you’re not at risk for Alzheimer’s, ginkgo biloba can help combat the everyday cognitive decline that can start as early as your 30s.
- Anti-Ageing Antioxidant: As an antioxidant, ginkgo biloba plays a crucial role in neutralising free radicals - unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to ageing - at the mitochondrial level. This is why ginkgo biloba is a key ingredient in anti-ageing supplements. For women, this means more than just a healthier body; it means radiant skin, better energy levels, and a sharper mind.
Eye Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
One of the most compelling ginkgo biloba benefits for women is its proven ability to support eye health. Eye conditions like macular degeneration and glaucoma are more common in women as they age.
- Glaucoma: In this condition, eye pressure causes stress on the optic nerve and reduced signal transmission from the eye to the brain. This affects the peripheral vision, and symptoms are often minimal initially until the more severe stages.
- Macular Degeneration: This condition typically affects individuals over 60 (age-related macular degeneration) but can occur at any age. As the macula deteriorates, the central visual clarity and ability to see fine detail will diminish.
As women age, the risk of developing these eye conditions increases. The good news? Ginkgo biloba has been shown to stabilise peripheral vision loss in glaucoma and improve visual function in dry macular degeneration.
“Ginkgo biloba extract administration can effect an improvement in preexisting visual field damage in some individuals with glaucoma” Dr Luciano Quaranta, Ophthalmology, 2003
How to Incorporate Ginkgo Biloba into Your Routine
Ginkgo biloba is widely available in herb and supplement form. You can find ginkgo biloba extracts as liquid pills or liquid extracts. The liquid extract is ideal for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. You can simply add a few drops to your meals or drinks to get your daily dose.
For those who prefer pills, ginkgo biloba supplements are available in capsule or tablet form. Although more expensive, they can be more long-lasting depending on your dosage requirements.
For a more comprehensive approach to eye health, Nutravision includes ginkgo biloba alongside other essential vision nutrients, such as saffron, bilberry, nicotinamide (vitamin B3), lutein and methylcobalamin (vitamin B12). This formula takes the guesswork out of determining your daily dosage and ensures you’re getting the best of what ginkgo biloba has to offer.
Ginkgo Biloba Side Effects
While ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe with no significant adverse effects reported in many clinical trials, it’s important to be aware of potential ginkgo biloba side effects. These may include mild symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
There has been concern regarding the potential bleeding risk with ginkgo biloba, but this is not supported by results from randomised clinical trials and meta-analyses.
Finally, ginkgo biloba fruit and seeds contain a toxin called ginkgotoxin, making them potentially poisonous if consumed in large amounts. Although ginkgo biloba seeds (known as "白果" or bái guǒ) are prized as a delicacy in Chinese culture, especially during special occasions, they must be carefully prepared to ensure they are safe to eat.
Pro tip: Stick to high quality, standardised ginkgo biloba supplements made from the leaves to ensure safety and efficacy.
Conclusion
As women, we juggle countless responsibilities, from careers to family, all while striving to take care of our own well-being. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands and challenges of modern life. In this balancing act, it’s essential to find tools that support our health in meaningful ways.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your mind, protect your vision, or simply maintain your overall well-being, consider incorporating ginkgo biloba supplements into your daily routine.
And if you are looking for a quality-assured, standardised ginkgo biloba supplement that is conveniently combined with other clinically proven ingredients for your eye, heart and brain, then you could consider Nutravision as a trusted option that has already benefited many Australians.
“The ingredients in Nutravision are clinically proven. The benefits go beyond just eyes as it is great for cardiovascular and brain health too. Taking it daily gives me the confidence that I am being looked after.” Esther C, Retired Nurse
After all, your health is your most valuable asset, and with ginkgo biloba, you’re investing in a natural solution that’s been trusted for centuries.
It’s time to take charge of your well-being - nourish your body, strengthen your mind, and step confidently into a future that’s as vibrant and dynamic as you are.
