Gingko

The ginkgo tree is thought to be one of the oldest living trees, dating back more than 200 million years. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but is also now grown in Europe and the United States. It seems to improve blood circulation, and might also act as an antioxidant to slow down changes in the brain. Ginkgo biloba has many health benefits. It’s often used to treat mental health conditions, Alzheimer’s disease, and fatigue. It’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for about 1,000 years. Ginkgo’s health benefits are thought to come from its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also increase blood flow and play a role in how neurotransmitters in the brain operate. According to a 2013 systematic review, ginkgo can be considered an adjuvant therapy for schizophrenia. Researchers found ginkgo seemed “to exert a beneficial effect on positive psychotic symptoms” in people with chronic schizophrenia who take antipsychotic medication. Ginkgo may help relieve premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, according to a 2009 study. During the study, participants taking either ginkgo or a placebo experienced a reduction in symptoms. Those taking ginkgo had significantly more relief.