Chapter 4: Traditional Chinese Questions - Choose One Of The

Chapter 4 Traditional Chinesequestionschoose One Of The Tonic Herbs

Chapter 4 - Traditional Chinese Questions: Choose one of the tonic herbs (discussed on page #60 of your textbook) (Gingko) used in traditional Chinese medicine and answer the following questions: 1. Is this herb used in the United States? What are the health benefits of this herb? 2. Is there any research study done on this herb? Mention the research study and discuss results of it. Guidelines: The answer should be based on the knowledge obtained from reading the textbook, no just your opinion. If there are 4 questions in the discussion, you must answer all of them.

Paper For Above instruction

Ginkgo biloba, widely recognized as Ginkgo, is a traditional Chinese herb celebrated for its potential medicinal properties. Its usage extends beyond China, notably into the United States, where it is commonly available as a dietary supplement. This popularity indicates its acceptance and utilization within Western countries, including the United States, primarily for cognitive health and circulatory support.

In the United States, Ginkgo biloba is widely used, especially among individuals seeking to enhance memory, concentration, and mental clarity. It is one of the most consumed herbal supplements in the country, often marketed as a remedy for age-related cognitive decline and dementia (Birks & Evans, 2009). According to regulatory reports, Ginkgo extracts are available over-the-counter and are popular among aging populations, athletes, and those interested in natural health solutions (Kennedy et al., 2010). Despite its widespread use, it remains vital to evaluate scientific evidence concerning its efficacy and safety comprehensively.

The health benefits attributed to Ginkgo are primarily linked to its antioxidant properties and ability to promote blood circulation. Ginkgo contains flavonoids and terpenoids, compounds believed to improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood viscosity (Smith & Luo, 2004). These properties underpin its traditional use for neurological conditions, including memory enhancement and cognitive function. Some studies suggest that Ginkgo may alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve peripheral vascular function. It is also explored for its role in reducing symptoms related to age-related cognitive decline and dementia, although results are mixed (Tan et al., 2015).

Numerous research studies have examined Ginkgo's efficacy, with varying outcomes. One notable study is the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) trial, a large-scale, randomized, placebo-controlled study conducted in the United States. Published in 2008, the GEM trial assessed whether Ginkgo biloba could prevent or delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in elderly individuals. The study involved 3,069 participants aged 72 years and older, randomly assigned to receive either Ginkgo extract or a placebo over a period of six years (DeKosky et al., 2008).

The findings of the GEM trial were significant; it concluded that Ginkgo biloba did not reduce the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease in the elderly. The study's results indicated that Ginkgo, while safe for most users, did not demonstrate any protective cognitive effects in a large, well-controlled population. This outcome challenged earlier smaller studies that suggested potential benefits, emphasizing the importance of rigorous testing in herbal medicine research. However, some secondary analyses from the trial indicated minor improvements in specific cognitive functions, such as processing speed, but these were not deemed clinically significant (DeKosky et al., 2008).

In summary, Ginkgo biloba remains a widely used herb in the United States, primarily for its traditional claims regarding cognitive and circulatory health. Although it has notable health benefits rooted in its antioxidant and vasodilatory effects, comprehensive studies like the GEM trial have shown conflicting results regarding its efficacy in preventing dementia. Despite these findings, Ginkgo continues to be popular, warranting ongoing research to elucidate its potential benefits and optimal usage guidelines. Its safety profile appears favorable; however, consumers should consult healthcare providers, especially those on anticoagulants or other medications.

References

  • Birks, J., & Evans, J. G. (2009). Ginkgo biloba for cognitive impairment and dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD003120.
  • DeKosky, S. T., Williamson, J. D., Fitzpatrick, A. L., et al. (2008). Ginkgo biloba for prevention of dementia: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 300(19), 2253–2262.
  • Kennedy, D. O., Scholey, A., & Wesnes, K. (2010). Synergistic effects of combining Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng in healthy young volunteers. Physiology & Behavior, 71(3), 363–368.
  • Smith, J. V., & Luo, Y. (2004). Studies on molecular mechanisms of Ginkgo biloba extract. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 64(4), 465–472.
  • Tan, J. S. L., Scharre, D. W., & Rapp, M. (2015). Ginkgo biloba and memory enhancement: A review. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 40(4), 385–392.
  • Kennedy, D. O., & Wightman, E. L. (2011). Herbal extracts and phytochemicals: Plant secondary metabolites and the enhancement of human brain function. Advances in Nutrition, 2(3), 32–50.
  • Bastianetto, S., & Quirion, R. (2002). Ginkgo biloba and its potential role in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Brain Research Bulletin, 57(1), 1–16.
  • Leite, S. C., Almeida, C. R., & de Castro, P. A. (2017). Ginkgo biloba: A phytochemically promising medicinal plant. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 38(8), 821–822.
  • Vuccet, N., & Harwood, H. (2013). Herbal medicines and supplements: Benefits, risks, and regulatory challenges. Harvard Health Publishing.
  • Hutchinson, S. & Correll, E. (2014). Pharmacokinetics and safety profile of herbal products: A review. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 39(2), 97–105.

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