Gingko Biloba for Depression
The Gingko Biloba tree, also known as Maidenhair Tree, fossil tree, Kew Tree, Bai GuoYe and Yinhsing, can be found growing around the world. It can survive in temperatures that range from -30C to +40 C making it adaptable to most climates. They can be very large trees ranging from 50 feet to 80 feet in height and 30 to 40 feet in width. There are male and female varieties both of which have green fan-shaped leaves that turn a golden color in Autumn before they fall. The female Gingko Biloba tree produce tan-orange colored oval fruits that also drop to the ground during the months of September and October. Once these fruits fall from the tree they tend to become mushy, slippery and foul smelling making the female tree an unpopular option. They also contain a seed in the center of them that is said to be poisonous to humans if consumed.
Gingko Biloba has been subjected to several clinical trials and has been found to be beneficial in relieving the symptoms of depression, especially in elderly people. There are two main components that are responsible for these beneficial effects, flavonoids (quercetin and rutin) and terpenoids (ginkgolides), both of which have antioxidant properties. Flavonoids aid in protecting the blood vessels in the brain from damage and the terpenoids expand these blood vessels, improving blood flow, which contributes to improved memory and mood enhancement.
Gingko Biloba is available in several different forms including Gingko Biloba extract, capsules, softgel capsules, tinctures, liquid, powder, and pills. The most effective form is the extract because it has a much higher concentration. While Gingko Biloba is said to be a safe alternative to prescription medication, there have been reports of side effects that include diarrhea, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, and heart palpitations. Spontaneous bleeding has also been reported after usage so it should not be taken by anyone who is taking an anticoagulant such as Warfarin, Dicumarol, or Anisinidione.
As with any type of alternative medications or herbs, it is extremely important to talk to your physician before taking Gingko Biloba or stopping any prescription antidepressants. Abruptly stopping any medication could result in serious consequences. It is also never a good idea to mix herbal medicines with prescription medicines without first checking for potential drug interaction issues. It is also important to note that research does not show that Gingko Biloba has any affect on severe depression. So, if you suffer from severe depression you will want to consider other options.