Ginkgo biloba is thought to be among the oldest living species of trees. Chinese monks are credited with cultivating the tree for centuries for its use as a sacred herb. Gingko biloba was first brought to Europe in the 1700's and is now a commonly prescribed drug in France and Germany. It also is one of the most well-researched herbs in the world.

Ginkgo contains two groups of active substances: flavonoids and terpene lactones, including ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol. The ginkgolides have been shown to control inflammation.

Ginkgo biloba has the following therapeutic benefits:

• Circulation: Gingko effectively improves circulation of the blood, partly by suppressing the action of a substance called the "platelet-activating factor." The herb may help improve circulation to erectile tissues in men. It may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to the plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can thereby relax constricted blood vessels. The herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-related disorders such as diabetic peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud's syndrome, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. It can also aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and complications from stroke and skull injuries. Ginkgo's beneficial effects on the circulatory system can aid in the treatment of eye and ear disorders. Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the retina, and can slow retinal deterioration, helping improve visual acuity. In clinical tests, ginkgo has improved hearing loss in the elderly and is a treatment for tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It also improves circulation in the extremities, relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs, and chronic arterial blockage.
• Brain: Gingko biloba is commonly used to increase cerebral blood flow; because of its positive effects on the vascular system, especially in the cerebellum of the brain, ginkgo is gaining recognition as a brain tonic that enhances memory. It also has been used as an herbal treatment for vertigo and a variety of neurological disorders. Gingko is said to boost oxygen levels in the brain, which uses 20% of the body's oxygen. Benefits of enhanced circulation in the brain include improved short and long-term memory, quicker reaction time, and improved mental clarity. Ginkgo has been used to treat patients with Alzheimer's disease and other symptoms of cerebral insufficiency, a general term for a collection of symptoms that include difficulties of concentration and memory, absentmindedness, confusion, lack of energy, depressive mood, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache.
• Aging: Ginkgo may help to counteract some of the effects of aging, including mental fatigue and lack of energy, by increasing oxygenated blood flow to the brain and throughout the body. By improving the oxygen supply, gingko may increase metabolism efficiency and regulate neurotransmitters
• Antioxidant: Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals that are believed to contribute to premature aging and dementia. Antioxidants also help protect the eyes, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system.

Ginkgo is being investigated for other uses, including as a potential treatment to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs, and as a treatment for asthma and toxic shock syndrome.