Has anyone tried Ginkgo Biloba?

[nichii]

I'm considering trying Ginkgo, so I can increase blood flow to my brain. It looks good, but I read on a few different sites that Ginkgo might increase the risk for seizures in people with epilepsy. I'm wondering if there's any truth to this. I believe my memory and concentration problems are due to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to my brain. Bacopa helps, but it isn't enough. Ginkgo looks excellent, but I'd like to know if it's safe.

 

[AlohaBird]

I wouldn't risk it personally.
There are easier ways to get oxygen to the brain the best of which is get some exercise.
A few years ago I climbed Mt. Kilimangaro so I read up on training for increasing lung capacity because I didn't want to get altitude sickness (which is caused by lack of oxygen to the brain).
The type of training known as HIIT is what works. High Intensity Interval Training. Basically wind sprints but you can do them running, climbing, in the water.

I made it to the top, 19,000 some odd feet with no altitude problems at all.

I really should get back to that training. Note to self.



ETA Nichi, more often than not around here I am the one talking about alternative therapies in a positive light so the fact that I have read enough about this one to consider it dangerous for those who have epilepsy..... You might want to think about some HIIT instead.

 

[Cint]

I'm considering trying Ginkgo, so I can increase blood flow to my brain. It looks good, but I read on a few different sites that Ginkgo might increase the risk for seizures in people with epilepsy. I'm wondering if there's any truth to this.

From what I've read and heard from my epileptologist, there is truth to this. Some of these "natural" herbs contain toxins that do cause problems for epilepsy patients.

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2010/02February/Pages/ginkgo-biloba-risk-of-epileptic-seizures.aspx

Ginkgo biloba extracts are popular supplements
Extracts of the Ginkgo biloba plant may increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy, BBC News has reported. The scientists behind the news are reportedly convinced the herbal extract could have detrimental effects.
The news comes from a scientific report that says one of the herbal extract’s active ingredients has been linked to seizures and deaths in animal studies. Consumption of ginkgo seeds has also been implicated in lethal cases of food poisoning in humans. The researchers raise the possibility that some commercially available ginkgo preparations may contain the toxin behind these adverse effects, mentioning 10 cases of seizures thought to be linked to the use of ginkgo-based products. The authors say it is essential that people are aware of the risks, and for manufacturers to assess the levels of toxin in their products.

Check this out for Complementary Health approaches:
http://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/complementary-health-approaches

And more info on "Herbal Medicine"--

http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/treatment/herbal-medicine

What is herbal medicine good for?

Herbal medicine is used to treat many conditions, such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, and cancer, among others. Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. For example, one study found that 90% of arthritic patients use alternative therapies, such as herbal medicine.Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbs. Some common herbs and their uses are discussed below.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been used in traditional medicine to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. Although not all studies agree, ginkgo may be especially effective in treating dementia (including Alzheimer's disease) and intermittent claudication (poor circulation in the legs). It also shows promise for enhancing memory in older adults. Laboratory studies have shown that ginkgo improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets. By the same token, this means ginkgo may also increase the effect of some blood thinning medications, including aspirin. People taking blood thinning medications should ask their doctor before using ginkgo. Caution should also be taken with people with a history of seizures and people with fertility issues; speak with your physician.

 

[Cint]

A few years ago I climbed Mt. Kilimangaro so I read up on training for increasing lung capacity because I didn't want to get altitude sickness (which is caused by lack of oxygen to the brain).
The type of training known as HIIT is what works. High Intensity Interval Training. Basically wind sprints but you can do them running, climbing, in the water.

A lot of folks come out here to the Rocky Mountains and get altitude sickness. When we lived in Memphis and came out to visit family, my son who has asthma, didn't actually get altitude sickness, but did have breathing issues because of the thinner air. He is an avid snow skier. Thank goodness for inhalants.

 

[AlohaBird]

Yeah, I saw a few people get carried down the mountain with altitude sickness. Talk about a way to ruin your vacation (not to mention possibly dying).
The rule the mountain guides are supposed to follow is that, if you are to the point where you need supplemental O2 from a canister, they have to take you down the trail. If you try to "power through" after that you are an embolism waiting to happen.

Funny side note. My guide said that 9/10 people he guides are fine, no altitude sickness. But of the ones who do get sick he said 9/10 are guys and tend to be the buff gym body type dudes. He said, first of all they are carrying a lot of excess weight compared to their fitness ability and also that they are just too bleeping stubborn to admit when they need help.

 

[MichaelJO7]

I tried Ginko Biloba many years ago. I still have some of the bottle left. I did not have seizures as the time, so I can't speak to that. I do remember that it did increase blood flow. I stopped taking it for other unpleasant sensations. Capsaicin is what I use now, found in hot peppers mostly. It helps to dilate the capillaries. It can cause stomach problems if too much is taken, so it is best to dial it up gradually, over a period of weeks, or even months as your body gets used to it.

 

[MAB]

I tried Ginko Biloba many years ago. I still have some of the bottle left. I did not have seizures as the time, so I can't speak to that. I do remember that it did increase blood flow. I stopped taking it for other unpleasant sensations. Capsaicin is what I use now, found in hot peppers mostly. It helps to dilate the capillaries. It can cause stomach problems if too much is taken, so it is best to dial it up gradually, over a period of weeks, or even months as your body gets used to it.

I use a pinch of capsaicin pepper in my 2-3 cups of coffee in the morning.