Known as the maidenhair tree, ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest trees on Earth and can be found in China, Japan, and Korea. Prior to the Ice Age, gingko also thrived in North America and Europe.

Ginkgo leaves, fresh or dry, and seeds, separated from the outer layer of the fruit, have been used medicinally in Asia for thousands of years to treat allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. In Chinese medicine, gingko is also valued as a heart tonic, proving to be beneficial in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmia.

Ginkgo causes blood flow throughout the body, particularly cerebral blood flow to become increased. It acts as a circulatory system tonic, stimulating greater tone in the venous system. For numerous diseases caused by restricted blood flow, the herb has been proven to be a useful and remedy. In Europe, physicians prescribe the extract for treatment of Raynaud's disease, a condition characterized by impaired circulation to the fingers.

German herbalists recommend ingesting the extract for treatment of leg ulcers and it is widely recommended in Europe for the treatment of stroke. By strengthening the blood capillaries throughout the body, the dried leaf extract may also act to prevent hemorrhagic stroke. In studies of patients with atherosclerotic clogging of the artery in the penis, ginkgo extract therapy over the long term has provided significant improvement in erectile function. Ginkgo extract also helps eliminate damaging free-radicals in the body, and is also a choice among many for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, relieving tender or painful breasts.

Ginkgo extract also enhances oxygen utilization and thus improves memory, concentration, and other mental faculties. It has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on an area of the brain affected by Alzheimer's disease called the hippocampus. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported a significant effect on dementia in those suffering from Alzheimer's. For these reasons, it has been used as an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

Improvement in long-distance vision and damage reversal to the retina of the eye are also evident through use of the gingko extract. Studies have also confirmed its value in the treatment of depression in elderly persons as well as the relief it provides for people withheadache, sinusitis, and vertigo.

Ginkgo supplements are typically taken in the range of 40-2000 mg per day. Should any side effects occur, use should be immediately discontinued.

Important note: Consult with your health care practitioner if you're taking anticoagulant (blood thinning) medication or over-the-counter pain killers on a daily basis as the combination can result in internal bleeding. The recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.