The ginkgo biloba tree is about as ancient as trees can get. It’s the oldest species on earth, and each tree can live for 1,000 years.

Found around temples in ancient China, it was used for centuries in Chinese herbal medicine. But it was as late as the 1950s that western scientists discovered its benefits. German researcher Dr William Schwabe analysed its active ingredients and went on to produce a ginkgo extract in 1965. Although protected in the wild, the trees are now grown for their medicinal properties.

Today the extract - a proven brain booster - is used to treat age related memory problems. It’s also used to help circulation by improving the flexibility of blood vessels. This is good news for people suffering from migraine, Raynaud’s disease, dizzy spells and some type of impotence. 

Recent studies have shown that ginkgo helps with diabetes, asthma and tinnitus, although it’s not yet understood why.

So what’s in it for you? Ginkgo contains flavone glycosides including quercetin, which help prevent blood becoming sticky. As well as boosting circulation (thus preventing atherosclerosis and aiding concentration) they also help maintain a nervous system and improve eyesight due to their antoxidant effect on the retina. 

The second ingredient is terpene lactones. These are the parts of the extract that have been proved to help with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

Finally, ginkgo contains bioflavanoids, another group of antioxidants that helps fight off many conditions including heart disease and cancer.

More than 34 human studies on ginkgo have been published since 1975, showing, among other things, that it can increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate, more commonly known as ATP. This activity has been shown to boost the brain’s energy metabolism of glucose and increase electrical activity.

Now research is being done to discover just how the unique combination of ingredients in ginkgo biloba produces such amazing effects, but in the meantime, thousands of people worldwide are getting the benefits of this ancient natural cocktail.

Note: Care should be taken by patients who are already taking some form of blood thinning medication. It’s always sensible to check with your doctor before taking any herbal remedy or other over-the-counter supplement.