Abstract This paper explores the remedies, uses, and history of the herb Ginkgo Biloba. It details it's medical application in mental alertness cases associated with Alzheimer's. The paper shows it usefulness but also includes the myth's associated with the herb such as its ability to improve intelligence and sexual preference.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. What is it?
3. History
4. Brain Booster?
5. Conclusion
6. Outline
From the Paper "As the medical community continues to make advances it seems that we are moving back to the traditional and natural remedies much more often than we have in the past. Herbs and other natural remedies have made a come back and they are stronger than ever. While the medical field and media play out debates concerning many pharmaceuticals the herbs step up to the plate. One popular natural remedy is Ginkgo Biloba. This natural answer to many problems has captured the attention of laymen and doctors alike. Study after study is being conducted on the product as they discover new and innovative potential uses for it. While it may not be the cure all that snake oil was promised to be in the days of the old west, it seems to have enough different types of uses to make it worth a closer look."
Abstract This paper discusses the herb Ginkgo Biloba and its uses. The writer explores the various claims and facts regarding the herb and the current advances being made in studies. It examines the make up of the herb, history of its uses and claims that is it good for sexual power, brain power and medicinal purposes.
From the Paper "As the medical community continues to make advances it seems that we re moving back to the traditional and natural remedies much more often than we have in the past. Herbs and other natural remedies have made a come back and they are stronger than ever. While the medical field and media play out debates concerning many pharmaceuticals the herbs step up to the plate. One popular natural remedy is Ginkgo Biloba. This natural answer to many problems has captured the attention of laymen and doctors alike. Study after study is being conducted on the product as they discover new and innovative potential uses for it. While it may not be the cure all that snake oil was promised to be in the days of the old west, it seems to have enough different types of uses to make it worth a closer look."
Abstract This paper discusses the traditional uses of the herbs rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) and ginkgo biloba (ginkgo), their connections with modern use and the evidence gained from research to support this. In particular, it looks at how within the fields of alternative medicines both of these herbs are widely known for the beneficial effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Clinical trials, where available are cited and discussed with a view to proving and rationalising the prescription of these two herbs by the modern herbalist.
From the Paper "There is a vast wealth of empirical information relating to Rosemary and its use as a stimulant of the mind since ancient times (Chevallier, 2001). The 17th century herbal medicalist Nicholas Culpeper spoke of it; "it helps cold diseases of the head and brain, drowsiness, dullness, dumb palsy, lethargy. It helps pains in the gums and teeth. It helps a weak memory and quickens the senses" (Culpeper, 1616 to 1654). This traditional use is comparable with its modern usage for poor memory and concentration, headaches, mild depression and debility associated with circulatory and digestive weakness and hair loss (Chevallier, 2001 and Hoffman, 1990). Chevallier (2001) describes the influence of Rosemary on the circulation to the head can even help balding if a decoction is used as a hair rinse."
Abstract The Ginkgo Biloba tree is the oldest tree species known to man with fossil records date back to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Today, the extract of the dried leaves is popular for use as a dietary supplement for the brain and heart. Ginkgo extract is thought to improve blood circulation and memory and prevent blood clotting. The leaves are also used as tea to soothe a variety of ailments. This paper gives a brief historical description including the characteristics of the Ginkgo tree that will detail the Ginkgo tree and its importance in today's society.
From the Paper "The Ginkgo tree is unique in many ways. It is so different from any other living tree that it must be classified in a separate order. The Ginkgo biloba probably no longer exists in a truly wild state. It has been found growing freely over some ten square miles near Changhua Hsien in the Chekiang province of China, but it is uncertain whether these trees are the remains of an ancient forest or not. It is a sacred tree in the Far East, where it is commonly planted in the grounds of temples and palaces. In some of the grounds of the temples there are specimens that are said to be over 1,000 years old. It's preservation in China, Korea, Manchuria, and Japan is probably due to the interest taken in it by the Buddhist priests whose interest in the tree saved it from becoming extinct."
Abstract This paper examines Alzheimer?s; it's aetiology and symptoms, in order to question the orthodox and alternative treatments available. It discusses the considered main causes that include zinc, copper, iron and aluminium, as well as including a brief overview of the accepted commonest risk factors. It is concluded by considering and suggesting, that ginkgo biloba is the main contender as the alternative to orthodox medicine in treating and preventing, Alzheimer's disease.
Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Chapter 1
An Overview of Alzheimer's Disease ? Definition, Aetiology and Risk Factors
Associated Structural Abnormalities of AD
Beta Amyloid Plaques (BAPs)
Neurofibrillary Tangles
Risk Factors of AD
Chapter 2 ? The Biometals
The "Normal" role of Zinc
The Paradoxical Role of Zinc
Iron
Copper
Aluminium
Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress
The Cholesterol Theory
Chapter Three ? Ginkgo Biloba Ginkgo Biloba as an Antioxidant and Preventative
Vitamin ?E? and Other Free Radical Scavengers
Chapter Four - The Role of Orthodox Treatments
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), One of the Neurotrophic Factors
Selegiline
Oestrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT)
Metal Chelation Therapy
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Chapter Five ? Conclusion
From the Paper "Copper is another essential trace mineral in the human body; it is a constituent of many enzymes and takes part in the absorption of iron and in melanin formation. Lack of copper may result in anaemia and bone changes. Estimated safe and adequate dietary intake is 1.5-3.0 mg/day for adults, and 0.4-0.6 mg/day for infants (Tortora and Grabowski, 2000). Copper plays a crucial role, with cholesterol, in nutrition and normal brain function. Recent evidence indicates that copper and cholesterol may both be important factors in the aetiology of AD. Sparks et al (2003) explains how trace amounts of copper (0.12 ppm) added to water and given to cholesterol-fed rabbits induced BAP accumulation, including senile plaque-like structures in the hippocampus and temporal lobe."
Abstract This paper originated with a Internet article intended for a public readership and arguing that ginkgo is ineffective in improving memory, despite assorted claims to the contrary that have encouraged a multi-million dollar ginkgo industry. (MSNBC:2003). The article explains how early studies prompted considerable faith in the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree as an aid to enhancing the mental functioning of patients diagnosed as having mild dementia; it was asserted too that mental functioning could be improved in patients without evidence of dementia or other malfunction.
Abstract The paper defines and describes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in order to research the side effects of psychotropic medication in children when compared with herbal remedies. The paper also examines behavior modification implemented in the classroom. The paper then shows how each of these treatments has advantages and disadvantages and concludes that more research is needed.
Outline:
Introduction
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Treatments for ADHD
Discussion and Conclusion
From the Paper "According to the National Institutes of Health, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder was first brought to the attention of the medical and psychological communities in 1902 when Sir George Still published lectures that were given to the Royal College of Physicians in England. The lectures discussed children displaying impulsive behavior as a result of a genetic dysfunction. The symptoms associated with ADHD include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention ("Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder"; Barondes, 2003)."
Abstract The paper provides an overview of prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, herbal medicines and supplementary drugs. The paper discusses the laxity in regulation of dietary supplements currently available in the market that is causing alarm among health care professionals. The paper then explores the reasons behind the increased popularity with OTC drugs and dietary supplements.
From the Paper "In these modern times, patients and consumers have numerous alternatives in attempting to alleviate their health. Conventional medicine is still the mainstream for treatment of the population's maladies. However, alternative or traditional medicine is rapidly gaining popularity among consumers and patients. These include methods that claim to have a holistic approach in healing. Reflexology and acupuncture are popular procedures in an effort to cure one's pain or illness. The uses of herbs and plants as alternative medicine have been used for centuries by other societies such as China and India. "
