Ginkgo is definitely one of my favourite herbs. I had the opportunity to see this mind-growing tree in New Zealand several years ago and the memory of it still gives me awe. It was so overpowering and the light delicately shone through the little brain shaped leaves. So green! If you ever get the chance, I recommend connecting with this particular plant. I was even more intrigued when I learned that Ginkgo is one of the oldest living tree species [1]. A true dinosaur.
Medicinally Ginkgo is used for many different conditions ranging from cardiovascular health, male and female reproductive health, brain health and asthma management [2]. The reason it lends itself so well to different body systems is it's potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Some of the active components in Ginkgo are terpene trilactones, flavonol glycosides, biflavones, phenolic acids, polyprenols... interestingly, there are over 30 genuine flavonoids. It's these flavonol glycosides, like quercetin and kaempferol, that contribute to it's antioxidant power.
Amoung these important actions, Ginkgo is also neuroprotectice, cardioprotective and promotes vasodilation. These effects lead to reduced vascular damage, protective effects on circulation, and improved blood flow to peripheral areas... including your brain. Brain fog is almost a silent symptom, you don't notice it begining, but once it clears - OMG. Confusion, forgetfulness, and a lack of focus and mental clarity. Does this sound like you? Now there are a lot of factors that contribute to brain fog. Lack of sleep, stress, poor nutrient status, poor diet, working too much, and food intolerances all cause a similar picture. So why am I talking about Ginkgo? Because this herb has the power to improve your accuracy and performance. Sure there are other actions you can take, and the first step would be to book an telehealth appoinment with our Naturopaths.
In a study mapping working memory and brain activity [3] the researchers found two weeks of Ginkgo extract able to improve accuracy on a memory task. They also noted increased synaptic inhibition in the left temporal lobe (understanding language, remembering) and prefrontal cortex (cognitive control). This is a good thing, potentially meaning that your brain has to do less work to get a clear result. That your brain becomes more efficient. Research suggests this might be due to Ginkgo's cholinergic action, but more evidence is needed to be conclusive.
To put that into a more modern phrasing, Ginkgo lends itself to being a nootropic. Herbs like this are best taken with meals in order to improve memory and cognitive decline. Other herbs that have similar actions include, Rosemary, Coffee (in moderation), Bacopa, Cocoa, and Guarana. Some of these herbs have other actions too, which may or may not be what you're looking for. It's always best to chat with your Naturopath or GP before beginning any new medicines as Ginkgo for example, doesn't mesh well with blood thinners, being a blood thinner itself.
My first recommendation is to chat with one of our Naturopaths, but if you are not on any medication and don't have any health conditions - a cup or two of Ginkgo a day might be a nice addition to your self care routine.
[2] Clinical Naturopathic Medicine, 2019
[3] doi: 10.1155/2011/164139
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