Ginkgo biloba, - Cognitive & Vascular Benefits

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Ginkgo biloba, - Cognitive & Vascular Benefits JoAnn Guest Sep 02, 2005

21:22 PDT

Re: Drug, SSRI, Congitive & Memory Dysfunction,

Iatrogenic

Ginkgo biloba, -Cognitive & Vascular Benefits

Alternative_M- , <DrLa-@j...>;

wrote <DrLa-@j...>;

 

Drug, SSRI, Congitive & Memory Dysfunction,Iatrogenic- Ginkgo

biloba,Cognitive & Vascular Benefits

 

RE: Antidepressants Etiology of Cognitive & Memory Dysfunction- Ginkgo

Biloba

 

Dear Mrs. Guest,

After observing the severe mental & cognitive decline in my Mother

being prescribed a variety of combinations of psychiatric drugs

before her suicide I have an interest in finding remedies that can

reverse the damage to mental function caused by selective serotonin

reinuptake inhibitors (SSRI's).

Thank you for this and other articles you have posted.

 

Are you aware of any contraindications to ingesting

Ginkgo biloba while a patient is consuming antidepressents

or enduring the suffering struggle of the side effects of withdrawal?

 

Are you aware of antidepressent dependent persons utilizing

Ginko biloba to reverse the side effects of SSRI's?

Thank you very much,

Dr. Sandra Lance, D.C.

Daughter of Alma Virginia Sanders

Antidepressant Suicide Victim

800 309 6560

(5AM-11PM) ________

 

Dear Dr. Lance,

 

I am saddened to hear of your mother's suicide. These

combinations (antidepressants) are indiscriminately prescribed

without regard for the well being of the recipients.

Whenever I am called upon to review some of the combinations I

almost inevitably find that if the truth were known (per webmd &

other sites), even orthodox medicine does not advise that they be

taken in such extremely high dosages and dangerous combinations.

Frequent misdiagnoses are `evil', but the fact remains that the

atrocities continue and more victims are being led each day into a

world from which they find it difficult to emerge. I have

observed that those who are `under the influence' are very easy

to `manipulate'. I find this very troubling.

 

Evidently this is not a topic that is well researched, however I

will post my current findings in the hopes that there will be more

in the future!

 

Dr. Murray finds that Gingko is effective with:

 

Symptomatic relief of organic brain dysfunction

 

GBE's antioxidant activity in the brain is of particular interest.

 

The brain and central nervous system are particularly susceptible to

free radical attack.

 

Ginkgo increases blood flow to the brain and has excellent

restorative effects on the nervous system.

 

GBE has been shown to inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine,

serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine, important neurotransmitters

in the brain.

 

Ginkgo is of benefit for many of the presumed symptoms of aging such

as:

 

Anxiety and depression

 

Memory impairment

 

Poor concentration, decreased alertness

 

Diminished intellectual capacity

 

--\

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Supportive therapy consists of

Ginkgo Phytosome (80 mg three times per day).

 

Researchers began studying the antidepressive effects of Ginkgo biloba

extract as a result of the improvement in

mood noted by patients suffering from decreased blood flow to the

brain (cerebrovascular insufficiency).

 

Several studies were conducted to determine if Ginkgo biloba extract

was, in fact, an antidepressant.

 

In one of the more recent double-blind studies, 40 patients (ages

ranged from 51 to 78 years) with depression who had not benefited

fully from standard antidepressant drugs were given

either 80 mg of Ginkgo biloba extract three times daily or a placebo.

 

By the end of the 8th week study, the total score of the Hamilton

Rating Scale for Depression in the Ginkgo biloba extract group had

dropped from 14 to 4.5.

 

In comparison, the placebo group dropped from 14 to only 13.

 

This study indicated two things:

 

(1) Ginkgo biloba extract can be used with standard antidepressants

and/or St. John's wort extract and

 

(2) it may enhance their effectiveness, particularly in patients

over 50 years of age.

 

I prefer the Ginkgo biloba extract bound to phosphatidylcholine

(Ginkgo Phytosome) to un-bound ginkgo.

 

Other studies on ginkgo have appeared in such diverse journals as

Lancet, Audiology, and the Journal of Urology.

 

Over 120,000 physicians worldwide write over ten million

prescriptions for ginkgo each year,

accounting for over five hundred million dollars in sales.

 

===============================================

Posted: Sat Mar 12, 2005 7:05 pm

Post subject: Medicinal Components of Gingko Biloba

 

--

 

Extracts from the leaves of the Gingko tree are used medicinally.

 

The gingko biloba extract is marketed in Europe under the trade

names:

Tanakan, Rokan, Ginkogobil, Kaveri, and Tebonin is a well-defined

complex product prepared from the green leaves.

 

Extracts identical to these preparations are available in the United

States as food supplements. The culturing, harvesting and extracting

techniques have been thoroughly standardized and require careful

control.

 

The active components of Gingko leaves are the gingko flavone

glycosides and gingko heterosides (flavonoid molecules to which are

attached sugars unique to the gingko) several terpene molecules unique

to gingko (gingkolides and bilobalide, and organic acids.

 

The three major backbone flavonoids of the Gingko biloba are

quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetine.

 

The sugar (glucoside components include glucose and rhamnose, which

are present as single sugars or as disaccharides (two sugar molecules

attached to each other.)

 

Other significant flavonoid components of GBE include

proanthocyanidins (see Grape seed extract)

 

Other constituents of GBE include a number of organic acids. These

compounds contribute valuable properties to the extract by making

the (usually water-soluble) flavonoid and terpene molecules of ginkgo

water soluble.

 

Gingko leaf extracts are now among the leading prescription

medicines in both Germany and France, where they account for 1.0 and 1.5

percent, respectively, of total prescription sales.

 

In 1989 alone, more than 100,000 physicians worldwide wrote more than 10

million prescriptions for GBE.

 

The total extract is more active than its single components of GBE-

an explanation that is well supported in more than 300 clinical and

experimental studies utilizing the extract.

 

Tissue effects

 

Ginkgo biloba extract exerts a profound, widespread influence on

tissue, including membrane-stabilizing, antioxidant, and free radical-

scavenging effects. Ginkgo biloba extract also enhances the utilization

of

oxygen and glucose.

 

Cellular membranes provide the first line of defense in maintaining

the integrity of the cell.

 

Largely composed of fatty acids (phospholipids), cellular membranes

also serve as fluid barriers, exchange sites, and electrical

capacitors.

 

These membranes are fragile and vulnerable to damage especially the

lipid peroxidation induced by oxygenated free radicals. Gingko is an

extremely effective inhibitor of lipid peroxidation of cellular

membranes.

 

Red blood cells provide excellent models for evaluating the effects

of substances on membrane functions.

 

Red blood cell studies utilizing GBE have demonstrated that in

addition to directly stabilizing membrane structures and scavenging free

 

radicals, GBE also enhances membrane transport of potassium into

(and sodium out of) the cell by activating the sodium pump (Very

beneficial in controlling High blood pressure).

In essence, GBE leads to better membrane polarization. This is

particularly important in excitable tissues, such as nerve cells.

 

Vascular effects

 

The mechanisms of GBE's vascular effects have been investigated

utilizing a number of " in vivo " and " in vitro " techniques. Isolated

vessel techniques allow the effects of GBE on different parts of the

vascular system to be isolated, while in vivo studies provide

information on the total circulatory phenomena (i.e., GBE's ability

to ncrease the perfusion rate to various regions).

 

Gingko biloba extract stimulates greater tone in the venous system,

thus aiding the dynamic clearing of toxic metabolites that accumulate

during ischemia (times of insufficient oxygen supply).

 

Gingko biloba extract normalizes circulation by producing tonic

effects. These effects are much more apparent in an ischemic vascular

area than in a normally perfused area. It is truly remarkable that a

substance

can simultaneously combat the phenomena resulting from vascular spasm

and with the same efficiency; restore circulation to areas subject to

vasomotor paralysis.

 

The importance of this dual action is becoming more apparent in

cerebral nsufficiency as single-direction drugs (i.e. vasodilators), can

 

often aggravate the condition by preferentially dilating the healthy

areas, thereby deflecting blood and oxygen AWAY from the ischemic area.

 

Future applications of Ginkgo Biloba extract

 

Experimental studies as well as some preliminary clinical evidence

indicate that GBE may be of benefit in cases of angina, congestive

heart failure, and in acute respiratory distress syndrome.

 

Its action on inhibiting platelet activating factor may also make it

useful in the treatment of conditions other than allergies,

including

various types of shock, thrombosis, graft protection during organ

transplantation, multiple sclerosis, and burns.

 

Clinical research shows that GBE should be taken consistently for at

least 12 weeks to be effective. Although most people report benefits

within 2 to 3 weeks, some may take longer to respond.

Gingko biloba leaf extract is extremely safe and side effects are

uncommon.

 

Nerve cell effects

 

The membrane stabilizing and free radical scavenging effects of GBE

are perhaps most evident in the brain and nerve cells. Brain cells

contain the highest percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in their

membranes of any cells in the body, making them extremely susceptible to

free radical damage.

 

The brain cell is also extremely susceptible to hypoxia. Unlike most

other tissues, the brain has very little energy reserve. Its

functions require large amounts of energy in the form of a constant

supply of

glucose and oxygen. Diminished circulation to the brain sets off a

set of chain reactions that disrupt membrane function and energy

production and ultimately lead to cellular death.

 

Gingko biloba extract is remarkable in its ability to prevent

metabolic disturbances in experimental models of insufficient blood

supply to the brain.

 

It accomplishes this by enhancing oxygen utilization and increasing

cellular uptake of glucose, thus restoring energy production.

Particularly interesting is GBE's ability to normalize the

circulation in the areas most affected by micro embolization, namely the

 

hippocampus and striatum.

 

Briefly, GBE promotes an increased nerve transmission rate, improves

synthesis and turnover of brain neurotransmitters, and normalizes

acetylcholine receptors in the hippocampus (the area of the brain

most affected by Alzheimer's disease.)

 

Peripheral arterial insuffiency

 

Peripheral arterial disease has as its primary lesion the same

cholesterol-containing plaque that is responsible for other

condition associated with atherosclerosis, for example, coronary artery

disease nd cerebral vascular insuffiency.

 

In peripheral arterial insufficency the arterial obstruction or

narrowing causes a reduction in blood flow during exercise or at

rest.

Clinical symptoms cause a reduction in blood flow during exercise or

at rest. Clinical symptoms are caused by the consequent ischemia.

 

The most common symptom is a pain on exertion-intermittent claudication.

 

The pain usually occurs in the calf and is described as a cramp or

tightness, or severe fatigue. The pain is usually bilateral.

 

The pain is caused

not only by reduced oxygen delivery, but also by an increase in the

production of toxic metabolites and cellular free radicals.

These free radicals accumulate and react with the lipid constituents

of the cell membrane.

 

Pain at rest indicates serious reduction in resting blood flow.

 

In nine double-blind, randomized clinical trials of GBE versus

placebo in two matched groups of patients with peripheral arterial

insufficiency of the leg, GBE was shown to be quite active and superior

to placebo

(eight studies) and equal to pentoxifylline (one study).

 

Not only were measurements of pain-free walking distance (75 to 110

percent_ and maximum walking distance 52 to 110 percent)

dramatically increased, but plethyamographic and Doppler ultrasound

measurements demonstrated increased blood flow through the affected

limb; blood lactate levels also dropped.

 

The demonstration that Ginkgo biloba extract improves limb blood

flow as well as walking tolerance (in studies following strict

methodology

and sufficient patients for reliable evaluation) indicates that GBE is

far superior to peritoxifylline and standard medical therapy in the

treatment of peripheral arterial insufficiency.

 

This includes other peripheral vascular disorders such as diabetic

peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud's disease, acrocyanosis, and

postphlebitis syndrome.

 

The longer GBE is used, the greater the benefit. The following table

summarizes a 2-year trial of GBE (160 mgs daily) in the treatment of

peripheral arterial disease (Fontaine stage IIb). Pain free walking

distance increased by 300 percent.

 

Platelet effects

 

Gingko biloba extract and isolated ginkgolides have profound effects

on platelet function, including inhibition of platelet aggregation,

inhibition of platelet adhesion, and degranulation (release of

allergic and inflammatory components).

 

These effects appear to be due to direct membrane and antioxidant

effects, increase synthesis of prostacyclin and the antagonism of a

substance known as platelet-activating factor (PAF).

 

Gingko biloba extract and the ginkgolides have been shown to be

potent inhibitors of PAF. Platelet-activating factor is a potent

stimulator

of platelet aggregation and degranulation.

 

It is also involved in many inflammatory and allergic processes

including neutrophil activation, increasing vascular permeability ,

smooth muscle contraction including bronchoconstriction, and

reduction in coronary blood flow. Gingko extract and ginkgolides compete

with

PAF for binding sites and inhibit the various events induced by PAF.

These actions may be responsible for many of the clinical effects of

GBE.

 

Clinical Applications

 

Ginkgo biloba extracts primary clinical application has been in the

treatment of vascular insufficency. In more than fifty double blind

clinical trials, patients with chronic cerebral (brain) arterial

insufficiency and patients with arterial insufficiency have

responded favorably to GBE.

 

Key uses:

 

1) Cerebral Vascular insufficiency

(insufficient blood flow to the brain)

2) Dementia

3) Depression

4) Premenstrual syndrome

5) Peripheral Vascular insufficiency (intermittent claudication,

Raynaud's disease, etc.)

6) Multiple Sclerosis

7) Neuralgia and neuropathy

Inner ear dysfunction (tinnitus)

9) Vascular fragility

10) Retinopathy (macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, etc.)

11) Impotence

 

 

" The Healing Power of Herbs "

By Michael T. Murray, N.D.

Co-author of " Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine "

 

Warning-Disclaimer

 

Prima Publishing has designed this book to provide information in

regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding

that the publisher and the author are not liable for the misconception

or

misuse of information provided. Every effort has been made to make

this book as complete and as accurate as possible. The purpose of

this book is to educate. The author and Prima Publishing shall have

neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with

respect to

any loss, damage or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or

indirectly by the information contained in this book. The

information presented herein is in no way intended as a substitute for

medical counseling.

 

--

 

 

Benefits of Ginkgo biloba

 

--\

---

 

Extracts from the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree have been used

therapeutically in China for millennia. According to fossil records, the

 

ginkgo tree has been around for over 200 million years and is one of the

 

oldest still existing tree species on earth. Individual trees live up to

 

1,000 years.

 

Ginkgo, like ginseng, is mentioned in the traditional Chinese

pharmacopoeia.

 

Ginkgo extracts are among the most widely studied and prescribed drugs

in Europe to alleviate symptoms associated with a wide range of

conditions.

 

The main indications for these extracts are peripheral

vascular disease and the therapy of age related cognitive decline.

 

Ginkgo biloba is a mind booster underutilized by the medical profession.

 

 

What's in Ginkgo biloba?

 

Ginkgo contains many different substances but most of them fall into two

 

main categories: Terpenoid lactones and Flavonoids. The most unique

components of ginkgo extracts are the terpene trilactones which are

structurally complex molecules.

 

Terpene lactones give ginkgo a bitter

and strong flavor. The most important terpenes are the ginkgolides and

bilobides. Ginkgolides have not yet been found in any other living plant

 

species. Other compounds in ginkgo biloba include proanthocyanidins,

carboxylic acids and non-flavone glycosides

 

Flavonoids are natural substances that are also found in fruits and

vegetables. Flavonoids act as antioxidants, have an influence on the

immune system, and interfere with tumor formation.

 

Ginkgo contains many flavonoids but the most concentrated are

kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin.

Most ginkgo products on the

market list a flavonoid concentration of 24%. You will often see 24%

printed on packages or bottles of ginkgo.

 

How Does Ginkgo Work?

 

The active ingredients in gingko are believed to have their beneficial

effects by acting as antioxidants, preventing red blood cells and

platelets from aggregating to form clots,

allowing more oxygen to reach

neurons, and improving circulation in tiny blood vessels by inducing

relaxation of the muscles surrounding blood vessels.

 

Even circulation to the eyes improves when subjects are given ginkgo.

 

Clinical Uses of ginkgo biloba

 

The primary indications for ginkgo biloba are age related cognitive

decline (ARCD) and Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Age related cognitive decline is a term that describes a collection of

symptoms.

These include difficulty in concentration and memory, absent-mindedness,

confusion, lack of

mental energy, and sometimes, depressive mood.

 

Some of these symptoms may be associated with not enough blood reaching

the brain, hence a potential justification for the use of gingko in

lessening these symptoms.

 

Ginkgo improves communication between nerve

cells and enhances blood flow to the brain.

 

It is licensed in Germany for the treatment of ARCD. Ginkgo may have

promise in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's when

used together with other conventional medicines.

 

A well publicized study in the Journal of the American Medical

Association indicated that 120 mg

of ginkgo extract per day for one year was able to improve

*cognitive* 'performance' in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Ginkgo may show a beneficial effect on attention, memory and

functioning in Multiple Sclerosis patients as well.

 

Patients with dementia are helped by ginkgo.

 

However, it is unlikely that those with normal memory function will

notice a significant effect from ginkgo.

--\

----

 

Ginkgo Biloba-24%,

Enzymatic Therapy

 

www.enzy.com

 

Enzymatic Therapy's Ginkgo Biloba-24% is standardized for its potency

and natural constituents to produce the finest botanical extract

available to support improved short-term memory and mild memory

problems.

 

Developed in accordance with monograph standards set forth by

the German Commission E.

 

 

Ginkgo and Liver

 

Ginkgo is able to protect the liver from damage since it has antioxidant

 

properties, prevents lipid peroxidation and replenishes the glutathione

level. The effects of ginkgo were comparable to that of silymarin.

 

What Dosages of Ginkgo Are Best?

 

The majority of the studies done thus far with ginkgo have used daily

dosages of 120 to 160 mg (50:1 concentration, 24% flavonoids). Patients

generally took 40 milligrams three to four times a day. Treatment may be

 

needed for a few weeks before positive results can be fully appreciated.

 

Most manufacturers have pills that contain 40 or 60 mg of ginkgo.

 

You may wish to start with one 40 mg pill a day to see if there

is any improvement in memory or thinking.

 

Ginkgo is best taken early in

the day, and no later than afternoon.

 

Ginkgo has anti-platelet activity and hence may prolong the time it

takes to form a blood clot.

However, a study published in April, 2003

indicates that Coenzyme Q10 and Ginkgo biloba do not influence the

clinical effect of warfarin.

An additional study did not find ginkgo to alter platelet function or

coagulation time.

 

Ginkgo Summary

Ginkgo biloba appears to be useful in memory loss due to aging or

Alzheimer's disease, but is probably of little benefit in the young who

have normal brain function and memory.

 

Middle aged and older individuals

may find ginkgo to be helpful in sharpening the mind. For more details,

see Mind Boosters book.

 

Because of its antioxidant properties, it may be useful in

individuals with cerebrovascular disease.

 

Due to its blood thinning properties, a dose of 60 mg a day should not

be exceeded on a daily,

long-term basis unless a health care provider monitors you.

_________________

 

 

JoAnn Guest

mrsjo-

www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/Diets

 

 

 

 

AIM Barleygreen

" Wisdom of the Past, Food of the Future "

 

http://www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/Diets.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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