Ginkgo biloba, a tree native to the Far East that is capable of living up to 1,000 years, is known for its resistance to diseases, pollution, and many insects. Extracts from the dried leaves of this tree have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to treat symptoms associated with cerebral insufficiency (a lack of blood flow to the brain). These symptoms include memory impairment and poor concentration.
Several previous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on cognitive performance, which may be of great interest to elderly individuals with memory impairment. In order to confirm the results of these studies, researchers conducted a 6-month study on 31 patients over the age of 50 with mild to moderate memory impairment. Patients were treated with either 40 mg of a standardized Ginkgo biloba extract three times per day or placebo (untreated). A variety of tests were performed at weeks 0, 12, and 24 to assess signs of cognitive impairment.
According to G. Rai and colleagues in Current Medical Research and Opinion, "The results in patients receiving Ginkgo biloba extract were found to be significantly superior to those of patients receiving placebo..."
Researchers concluded that "...Ginkgo biloba extract...has a beneficial effect on mental efficiency in elderly patients showing mild to moderate memory impairment of organic origin."
Curr Med Res Opin 1991;12(6):350-55.
Advanced Nutrition Publications ©2002
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