The extract of the maidenhair tree (ginkgo biloba) is used by millions of people across the world. Its main properties include:

1)an improvement in the circulation of the blood in the small capillaries of the extremities

2)an antioxidant effect

3)improvement of crumbling mental prowess

Age-related mental problems can be anything from forgetfulness to lack of attention, dizziness, tiredness, sleep disturbances, restlessness and anxiety. Ginkgo Biloba is thought to alleviate most of these symptoms.

Scientifically studied and endorsed benefits of Ginkgo Biloba:

1)It improves the processing of information.

2)It expands the attention span and concentration.

3)It stimulates visual memories.

4)It promotes mental well-being.

5)It blocks the platelet-activating factor which is produced when the organism reacts to inhaled pollutants, so it reduces inflammation in the lungs and improves asthma.

6)It improves intermittent claudication (pain on walking due to blocked arteries).

7)One of its ingredients, bilobalide, protects the nerve cells from damage.

8)It is effective in reducing tinnitus (noises in the ears) in some patients.

In an experiment using 240mg extract of Ginkgo Biloba, the brain performance of mild to moderate Alzheimer's dementia patients improved. Attention and memory improvement was evident after taking Ginkgo Biloba for six months to a year. Also, Ginkgo Biloba improved social functioning and general brain performance in doses of 120mg.

If you decide to try Ginkgo Biloba, your practitioner may recommend that you take it for at least four weeks for the effects to become apparent, but it is best to take it long term.

Side effects of Ginkgo Biloba are rare but real: headache, dizziness, skin rash and menstrual period abnormalities.

When choosing a Ginkgo Biloba, aim for one which contains at least 120mg of standardized extract (not raw leaf), with 24% flavone glycosides, 6% ginkgolides and bilobalide. There are different strengths available on the market. The prices vary enormously and the cheapest brand isn't necessarily the best, because it may not provide enough Ginkgo Biloba for any worthwhile effects. Choose wisely !