Tori Hudson, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 For example, herbs that have an anti-inflammatory effect, such as white willow and ginger; diuretic herbs that decrease the pelvic congestion, such as parsley, dandelion leaf, or horsetail; and herbs that promote circulation, such as ginkgo, may also have a role in reducing the pain experienced from dysmenorrhea.
Natural Progesterone. As stated earlier, it is believed that the drop in progesterone premen-strually results in an increased production of arachidonic acid by the endometrium. This stimulates PgE2 release and uterine contractions. |
Elaine Magee
See book keywords and concepts |
 Quercetin, also found in onions, red wine, broccoli, tea, and ginkgo biloba, appears to influence some carcinogenic markers.
Savor the skins! In lab studies, researchers at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, found that apple extract given together with apple skin worked better to prevent substances that protect against a variety of conditions and chronic diseases, including cancer, coronary heart disease, and cataracts. These nutrients are literally powerhouses of protection. |
Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 Such a combination—Coumadin plus ginkgo biloba, garlic, fish oil, ginger, or even excessive amounts of vitamin E (>800 IU/day)—may cause a potential risk for bleeding. When patients are afraid to mention alternative supplements and vitamins they may be taking, they may expose themselves to these dangerous combinations. |
Tori Hudson, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Extract of ginkgo appears to be remarkably effective in reversing antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in women as well as men.78 Although the sexual dysfunction in this study was drug-induced rather than the result of changing hormones, I recommend trying this safe and simple approach.
40-80 mg standardized extract capsules or Vz-l tsp tincture 3 times per day
Ginseng {Panax Ginseng). There are many types and grades of ginseng and ginseng extracts that include related species. Panax ginseng, also known as Korean or Chinese ginseng, is the most widely used. |
Gary Null and Amy McDonald
See book keywords and concepts |
 Bugleweed helps alleviate heart palpitations and lowers blood pressure. ginkgo biloba, the well-known multipurpose herb, gets more blood flowing into the small blood vessels. It's suggested at 300 mg in divided doses. Motherwort helps secure cardiac electrical rhythm. Tansy is another herb used for heart palpitations, and it can be ingested as a tea. Wild yam enhances the body's production of DHEA, and DHEA is crucial in helping to prevent heart attacks. Arjuna is an Ayurvedic herb that enhances circulation and lowers blood pressure. Indian snakeroot also has anti-hypertensive qualities. |
| Jennifer Brett, "When feverfew is taken with magnesium in does of 250 to 500 milligrams daily, as well as with ginkgo biloba, most people notice a significant reduction in the number of migraines, even to the point of disappearance. This includes people who suffer daily migraines. Many people come to me who have had no success with more conventional treatments. After I start them on the feverfew and magnesium, they get a significant reduction in the number of headaches and the severity of pain. Even when they have headaches, they tend to be less frequent and less painful. |
Thomson Healthcare, Inc.
See book keywords and concepts |
 These individuals were administered ginkgo extract (EGb) 40 mg 3 times a day or an unspecified placebo for 52 weeks. Patients were stratified by their Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores into mild, stratum 1: (MMSE score greater than 23) (n=122), and moderate to severe, stratum 2: (MMSE less than 24) (n=114). Primary outcome measures used were the cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-cog) and the Geriatric Evaluation by Relative's Rating Instrument (GERRI). |
Gary Null and Amy McDonald
See book keywords and concepts |
| To boost mental function, I use ginkgo biloba, probably the number-two herb after ginseng," Dr. Spreen says. "We'll give a trial of that to people who say they don't remember things the way they used to, and to children with learning disorders. We'll try the herb for about 6 weeks. If the person doesn't feel a noticeable difference in that time, it probably doesn't work for them. The nice thing about this type of remedy is that it's harmless. If it doesn't work, you've only lost a few dollars; it hasn't done any harm. |
| HERBS. "Ginkgo biloba is utilized at a dose of 120 milligrams per day. This dose increases microvascular circulation, scavenges free radicals, and helps improve concentration and short-term memory."
4. PHARMACEUTICALS. The FDA-approved drugs for Alzheimer's disease include Cognex, Aricept, Exelon, and Razadyne for mild to moderate symptoms; and Namenda for moderate to severe symptoms. As mentioned earlier in this chapter, although not approved by the FDA for Alzheimer's disease, other drugs, including antipsychotics, are being used to treat associated psychotic and behavioral symptoms. |
| Among the substances that have demonstrated anti-Alzheimer effects are free vitamin E, deprenyl, ginkgo biloba extract, desferrioxamine (an iron-chelating agent) and estrogens.
Vitamin E and Alzheimer Disease. American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, 2000, 71(2):630S-636S.
Vitamin E administered in doses of 2000 IU/day may slow the rate of functional deterioration in patients with moderately advanced Alzheimer's disease.
Serum Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S) in Alzheimer's Disease and in Cerebrovascular Dementia. Yanase T; et al. |
| Other beneficial substances include ginkgo, which enhances circulation to the micro capillaries, oxygenating the tissues in the brain; coenzyme Q10, "a very energetic cofactor that works in the brain's power plant, the mitochondria"; and old-style phosphatidyl serine (PS) from bovine brains, as well as newer types of PS synthesized from soybeans.
"Everything I've talked about is regenerating or protective, not stimulating," Dr. Khalsa says. "I stay away from compounds like DMAE and acetyl carotene because I think they are not good for everybody. They are way too stimulating. |
The Editors of FC&A
See book keywords and concepts |
| No wonder people say they can walk farther after taking ginkgo. Experts recommend 120 to 160 milligrams per day with meals.
Before taking ginkgo supplements, make sure yours is made from the plant's leaves and not the seeds, which could be harmful. Also, don't take it without your doctor's approval if you're already on aspirin or warfarin.
Crack cramps with nuts. Those suffering from intermittent claudication tend to be deficient in vitamin E. This makes sense, since the antioxidant is important for smooth blood flow. |
Bradley J. Willcox, M.D., D. Craig Willcox, Ph.D., Makoto Suzuki, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 We can't vouch for ginkgo as a smart pill, but several well-conducted studies support its ability to slow memory decline—and that's a lovely bonus to this delicious meal. Most Asian food stores carry ginkgo nuts with shells. Canned unshelled and peeled nuts are also available, but they can be mealier and less fresh. To shell and peel ginkgo nuts, use a nutcracker to remove the shell; soak the nuts in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes to soften the skin, then peel the skin off. Because canned nuts are packed in brine, don't forget to rinse them well under running water if you go that route. |
Joe Graedon, M.S. and Teresa Graedon, Ph.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 Give ginkgo biloba a try. Although the research is not very supportive, ginkgo may help and it is relatively inexpensive. Make sure that it won't interact with any other medicine you are taking. •Consider melatonin. This natural compound appears to be quite safe and may help tinnitus sufferers get some much-needed sleep.
• If all else fails, your physician might prescribe misoprostol. A few small studies have found it useful for about one-third to two-thirds of tinnitus patients. Its price and side effects are daunting, however. |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes
See book keywords and concepts |
 It can help prevent dementia related to Alzheimer's disease when used with bacopa, ginkgo, and other cerebral circulatory stimulants.
White peony also has antispasmodic effects and can be used for people with spasms, cramps, and neurological symptoms such as headaches, high blood pressure, dizziness, seizures, and facial nerve pain.
Do not substitute domesticated, hybridized peonies for the Chinese peony (bat shao yao).
Dosage and Safety
Tincture (1:5): 30-50 drops, three times per day.
Decoction: Add V2-I tsp. dried root to 8 oz. water, decoct 10 minutes, steep 40 minutes. |
Thomson Healthcare, Inc.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Thirty-two patients with progressive advanced colorectal cancer refractory to conventional first line 5-FU therapy were treated with 350 mg of a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) as a 30-minute IV infusion on days 1 through 6, followed by 5-FU 500 mg/m2/d as a 30-minute infusion on days 2 through 6. Evaluation took place after the second and fourth course of treatment. Progression was observed in 22 patients, no change in 8 patients, and partial response in 2 patients (overall response of 6.3%). Authors claim a good benefit-risk ratio of the combined treatment, citing median survival time of 9. |
by Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Ginkgo biloba extract (24% ginkgo flavonglycosides)
120-240 mg
Best choice for most people over the age of 50. Protects brain and vascular lining.
Milk thistle extract (70% silymarin)
100-300 mg
Best choice for additional antioxidant protection of liver or skin needs.
Bilberry extract (25% anthocyanidins)
80-160 mg
Best choice to protect the eyes.
Hawthorn extract (10% procyanidins)
150-300 mg
Best choice in heart disease or high blood pressure
Glutathione
Glutathione is a small protein composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. |
The Editors of FC&A
See book keywords and concepts |
| Loaded with antioxidant flavonoids, ginkgo is another powerful herb that single-handedly rids your body of the toxins that cause hardening of the arteries. ginkgo also widens your blood vessels, improves blood flow, and prevents your blood from clumping.
Your options aren't limited to the four G's. Check out these other herbs that help conquer atherosclerosis.
• Hawthorn is jam-packed with flavonoids to control LDL cholesterol and widen the blood vessels around your heart. It's a good idea to check with your doctor before using this herb. Too much can be toxic. |
Elson M. Haas, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 An extract of the ginkgo biloba leaves has been tested and reported to be effective at reducing ischemic symptoms—vascular insufficiency associated with aging and atherosclerosis. ginkgo biloba appears to increase cerebral blood flow and thus help oxygenation; it also may inhibit platelet aggregation. In a study of geriatric patients, ginkgo was shown to reduce symptoms of vertigo, memory loss, tinnitus, and headache. In another study of lower limb claudication symptoms, ginkgo helped reduce pain and improve walking tolerance over the placebo group. |
Thomson Healthcare, Inc.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Bosio E et al. ginkgo biloba L. and Vaccinium myrtillus L. extracts prevent photo-induced oxidation, of low density lipoproteins. In: PM 62, Abstracts of the 44th Ann Congress of GA, 24. 1996
Brantner A, Grein E. Antibacterial activity of plant extracts used externally in traditional medicine. J Ethnopharmacol; 44: 35-40. 1994
Bravetti GO et al. Preventive medical treatment of senile cataract with vitamin E and Vaccinium myrtillus anthocianosides: clinical evaluation. Ann Ottal Clin Ocul; 115: 109-116. |
| Memory effect of standardized extracts of Panax ginseng (G 115), ginkgo biloba(GK 501) and their combination Gincosan (PHL-00701). In: PM 59(2).106. 1993.
Pfister-Hotz G, Phytotherapie in der Geriatrie. In: ZPT 18(3): 162-165. 1997.
Phillipson JD & Anderson LA. Ginseng- quality, safety, and efficacy? Pharm J; 232:161-165. 1984.
Porrath SA. Hormonal effects of ginseng tea. Med Aspects Hum Sexuality; 117. 1986.
Ploss E, Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer. Wissenschaftlicher Bericht. Kooperation Phytopharmaka, Koln Bonn Frankfurt Bad Homburg. 1988.
Punnonen R; Lukola A. |
| Briggs GG, Freeman RK & Yaffe SK. ginkgo. In: Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation, 6th ed; 13(2): 12-13. 2002.
Briichert E, Heinrich SE, Ruf-Kohler P. Wirksamkeit von LI 1370 bei alteren Patienten mit Hirnleistungsschwache. Munch Med Wschr 133(Suppl 1):9-14. 1991.
Brun-Pascaud M, Bertrand G, Chau F et al. Activity of bilobalide against Pneumocystis carinii, Toxicoplasma gondii, and Mycobacterium avium complex in a rat model of triple infection. Acta Pathol Microbiol Immunol Scand; 195:22-23. 1997.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S et al. |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes
See book keywords and concepts |
| In one study, ginkgo reduced anorgasmia in women taking antidepressant medications.
GOTU KOLA
Botanical Name: Centella asiatica Part Used: Herb
Gotu kola is known as kula kud in India. It is sometimes also called brahmi, but there is a significant controversy as to whether bacopa or gotu kola is the true brahmi. Both are anxiolytics and nervines in addition to nootropics, and they are used as rasayanas in ayurvedic medicine.
Fresh gotu kola leaves are sold in markets in Thailand as a stimulant and afternoon "pick-me-up. |
Joan Liebmann-Smith, Ph. D., and Jacqueline Nardi Egan
See book keywords and concepts |
 Tremors are also a common reaction to antipsychotic drugs, theophylline (for asthma), Dilantin (for epilepsy), and Compazine (a tranquilizer and antinausea medicine), as well as the herbal stimulants ephedra, ginkgo biloba, and ginseng.
Tremors sometimes signal alkalosis, a pH imbalance (too little acid in body fluids). Other signs may include muscle twitching, lightheadedness, numbness, and tingling. Alkalosis-related tremors can be a clue to the eating disorder bulimia. The good news is that alkalosis is easily treated. |
Paula Begoun and Bryan Barron
See book keywords and concepts |
 Green Tea & ginkgo Moisturizer SPF 15, for Normal Skin ($16.28 for 4 ounces) lists padimate-o (PABA) as its active ingredient, which is too irritating for skin and leaves it vulnerable to UVA damage. Several of the plant extracts are a problem, too, making this a sunscreen that won't keep normal skin in that state for long.
© Green Tea & Green Clay Rejuvenating Mask, for Normal Skin ($8.98 for 4 ounces) is a standard clay mask that includes glycerin, plant extracts, and thickeners. |
Joan Liebmann-Smith, Ph. D., and Jacqueline Nardi Egan
See book keywords and concepts |
| Some herbal or other dietary supplements, such as ginkgo, ginger, fish oil, and garlic, can also increase the chances of getting black-and-blue marks. These bruises can also signal nutritional
. . . , , , r • sign of the times deficiencies, such as a lack or vitamin C, K, or B|2, folic acid, or bioflavonoids (a compound found most commonly in citrus and other fruits as well as some vegetables).
Frequent or unexplained bruising can be a warning sign of some serious systemic conditions, especially leukemia. |
J. Douglas Bremner
See book keywords and concepts |
 John's-wort, flaxseed oil, fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, red clover, ginseng, rice bran oil, wild yam, calcium, gotu kola, licorice root, sage, sarsaparilla, passionflower, chaste berry, ginkgo, and valerian root. None of these have been subjected to controlled trials. However, since they are not associated with major health risks, it is okay to try them.
Heidi Nelson, M.D. |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes
See book keywords and concepts |
| The product that contained gingko and dang shen was more effective than the one with ginkgo by itself.
The Effect of Herbal Medicine Including Astragalus membranaceus, Codonopsis pilosula, and Glycyrrhiza uralensis on Airway Responsiveness (Wang 1998).
Patients treated with these herbs exhibited reduced airway responsiveness and pulmonary inflammation. |
Gabriel Cousens
See book keywords and concepts |
 Bilberry, grapeseed, and ginkgo are important plant sources of flavonoids.
Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)
The essential fatty acids also play a very important role, which is why I am very hesitant to encourage dietary fat intake that is too low to get the benefits of EFAs.
In diabetes the essential fatty acid metabolism is impaired. The Delta-6 desaturatase enzyme, which is necessary to convert linoleic acid to gamma linolenic acid (GLA), is inhibited in diabetes. |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes
See book keywords and concepts |
| It can be combined with other cerebral stimulants such as rosemary, bacopa, and ginkgo to help people with menopausal cloudy thinking, poor memory, attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and to speed up recovery from head trauma.
I also use holy basil as an antidepressant for "stagnant depression." The term stagnant depression is one that I coined, and it describes a specific type of situational depression. |
Email this page to a friend
