Ginkgos
Ginkgos (Ginkgo Biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species (200 million years). This plant can grow up to 120 feet tall and live for as long as 1000 years. Ginkgos's leaves and fruit seeds are believed to have medicinal properties; however, the fruit pulp is toxic and should be handled with care.
How does ginkgos work?
Ginkgos increases levels of estrogen (a key hormone that plays a role in several bodily functions) by supplying the body with phytoestrogens, botanical compounds with a chemical structure very similar to human estrogen. Ginkgos also has other unique properties that can help to relieve certain disorders specific to women.
What is ginkgos used for?
The ancient Chinese used Ginkgos as an herbal medicine to treat asthma and to improve blood circulation and mental performance.
Currently, Ginkgos is used to:
. Improve blood flow to most tissues and organs
. Correct sleep disturbances.
Ginkgos relieves these menopause symptoms:
. Vascular Disease
. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
. Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
. Memory lapses
Pros and cons for using ginkgos for menopause
PROS
Ginkgos enhances memory: This herb was used in traditional Chinese medicine to enhance memory, and today research has confirmed that Ginkgo is an effective memory enhancer.
Ginkgos stimulates blood circulation: Ginkgos is a strong anti-oxidant that can improve nerve cell function and increase blood flow to the nervous system and brain.
Ginkgos relieves hearing disorders: Nerve damage and certain blood vessel conditions can result in tinnitus (ringing in the ears or head when no external sound is existent), which Ginkgos can help to correct.
CONS
Ginkgos is very limited for relieving menopause symptoms. Memory lapse is the only menopause symptom Ginkgos can treat effectively.
Ginkgos can be harmful. Raw Ginkgos seeds contain a chemical called Ginkgos toxin, which can induce seizures if consumed. Ingesting large quantities even of cooked seeds can cause intoxication.
Ginkgos has adverse effects, especially for those with blood circulation conditions or individuals taking anti-coagulants, such as aspirin or warfarin. Ginkgo should not be used by pregnant women or if taking anti-depressants.
Conclusions about ginkgos
Ginkgos is great for alleviating the menopause symptom such as memory lapses. However, Ginkgos has been criticized because it adds artificial hormones to the body, and thus can trigger side effects, including serious problems like breast cancer.
There are other alternative treatments which are just as helpful as Ginkgos, but without the side effects. Non-estrogenic herbs, for example, are a great option for treating menopause symptoms. Read more in the following article.
