An herb to slow aging?

Ginkgo trees, native to China, can live as long as 1,000 years. It may be this longevity that has convinced people over the ages that the leaves can give elderly people more vigor. As far back as ancient China, ginkgo biloba was considered to be good for the heart and lungs. Extracts made from the tree’s leaves continue to be among the most popular herbal remedies in the world today.

Shari Roan

Uses: Ginkgo contains antioxidants that may prevent or reverse the cell damage that occurs in many degenerative disorders. It’s most commonly used to treat memory and concentration problems associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Ginkgo is thought to improve blood flow. The herb is also used for depression, impotence, vertigo, premenstrual syndrome, to prevent intoxication and the vascular disorder called Raynaud’s syndrome.

Dose: Typically 120 to 240 milligrams daily. Scientists have identified ginkgo supplements containing 6% terpene lactones and 24% flavone glycosides as having enough of the active chemicals to have an effect.

Precautions: Can react with some blood-thinning medications to increase their potency. Should not be combined with aspirin or taken prior to surgery because it may increase bleeding.

Research: There is some evidence that ginkgo can delay cognitive deterioration related to dementia, but the link is unproven; a six-year, $15-million federal study on the herb’s effect on cognitive function was launched in 1999. There is much less research on the other uses of ginkgo.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.