Ginkgo

The image above is from my class lesson.

I got the herbarium updated for today's herb and have it posted.  I will say i didn't go through three of the sources. The clock is ticking and I have a lot to get done. I will add the rest of the G-herbs to the virtual herbarium page today.  It turns out, I never posted the gentian herbarium.  At one time I wasn't posting them if I didn't have a lab or any research done.  Since these get updated periodically anyway, I think that practice needs to go away. 

I still have a lot of housework to do today.  My friend's daughter will be here today so I have 2 hours to get something accomplished.  Wish me luck!  Love and Light!

On to Ginkgo!

Constituents: Diterpene lactones (gingkolides A, B, C, and J), sesquiterpene lactones (bilobalide), flavonol glycosides (flavone glycosides – ginkgetin, quercetin, and kaempferol derivatives) (Hoffman, 2003, p. 553). Chevallier (2016) says flavonoids, ginkgolides, and bilobalides (p. 100). Petersen (2018) says the leaf has amino acids, flavone glycosides (including ginkolide A, B, and C – these inhibit the PAF platelet activating factor), flavonoids (primarily derived from rutin and include isorhamnetin, quercetin, kaempferol, and proanthocyanidins), proanthocyanidins, the trilactonic diterpenes, and the sesquiterpene bilabolide. The seed has alkaloids, amino acids, cyanogenetic glycosides, and phenols (p. 33).

Therapeutic Actions: Anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, relaxant, digestive bitter, uterine stimulant (Hoffman, 2003, p. 553). Chevallier (2016) says circulatory tonic, anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, anti-allergenic, and antispasmodic (p. 100). Petersen (2018) says the leaf is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient, and circulatory stimulant. The seed is antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, and expectorant (p. 34).

Indications: Peripheral vascular disease, cerebral insufficiency. Increase blood supply. (Hoffman, 2003, p. 553-4). Chevallier (2016) says multiple sclerosis (inflammation of the tissues), platelet activating factor (PAF) which causes the blood to clot easier, seed for wheezing, reduce phlegm, vaginal discharge, and incontinence. Leaf for asthma.  Leaves improve circulation, especially to the brain (hence it being used for increased memory), reduces possibility of stroke as it strengthens the circulatory system (p. 100).  Heinerman references a Chinese text dated 2800B.C. stating it was used for memory (p. 255). On page 256, he adds circulation (and explains how it works) and adds it can treat early onset of alzheimer’s disease, strokes, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy asthma, transplant rejection, heart arrhythmia, heart attack, head injuries, hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, depression, and cerebrovascular insufficiency.  He says it works on all of these things because of what it does for circulation (p. 256-7). Petersen (2018) says ADHD, memory deterioration (age-related), Alzheimer’s, slow circulation, depression, dizziness, loss of memory, tinnitus, headache, vertigo, PMS (breast tenderness and neuropsychological), diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, circulation, (p. 35).

Safety: Have increase effect with anti-platelet agents but this has a VERY low incidence of side effects (Hoffman, 2003, p. 554). Petersen (2018) says headaches and intestinal discomfort are experienced by some but well-tolerated. Dizziness, somnolence, increased urinary frequency, nausea and abdominal pain are also experienced. Ginkgotoxin (in the seed) can cause seizures, paralysis and death.  Use as directed. Boiling reduces this to safe levels. Many products that contain this herb can be dangerous – not containing the helpful parts of the plant.  Look for “whole herb” to ensure you are getting a proper product.  There have been reports of bleeding following surgery.  Discontinue use prior to such procedures (p. 41). She continues this is a MAO inhibitor but safe during pregnancy and lactation.  It does inhibit coagulation so do not use with such drugs (p. 42).

Have a Great Day!