It was chosen as an ingredient of Wonderup because: It contains flavonoids, important phytoestrogens helping in maintaining an hormonal balance which is necessary for a healthy development of the breast. Gingko's properties in improving circulation (it acts on all levels of the circulation system: dilates arteries, increases the tone of veins, increases cerebral circulation) also obviously contribute to a better local circulation of blood in the breasts, thus boosting the effects of all the other ingredients of Wonderup.

Other characteristics and properties:
Native of China and Japan, Gingko is a legendary tree, older than 250 million years, and has withstood the worst pollution of the twentieth century, in particular, the residue of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima.

The leaf contains very effective active ingredients (flavones, flavonoids, leucoantocians) that give it an antioxidant power that blocks the toxicity of free radicals.

It is particularly well known for its action on blood circulation in the veins, arteries and especially in the brain. Several clinical tests have been run, proving the effectiveness of the gingko leaves at all levels of blood circulation.

* improves circulation - Increased circulation to the brain improves mental sharpness, concentration, short-term memory, and cognitive ability. Useful in age-related memory loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, improving microcirculation, short term memory loss. Improved peripheral circulation helps reduce cold extremities, intermittent leg pain and cramping. Ginkgo also supports treatment for diabetic neuropathy, macular degeneration, and other circulatory related problems.

* antioxidant - protects the brain and nervous system from free radical damage, possibly helping deter the effects of aging

* protects the blood-brain barrier (anatomical barriers and transport systems that control types of substances entering extracellular space of the brain).

* decreases blood viscosity (stickiness) by inhibiting the platelet activating factor (PAF)

* decreases tissue damage during circulatory stress and increases circulation to the extremities

* assists in the delivery of oxygen and glucose to the brain

* protects arteries, veins and capillaries from damage, and helps regulate their tone and elasticity.

* used also for slowing the progression of Alzhaimer disease

Usage Warnings
Some patients with poor blood flow to the brain may experience a mild transient headache for the first two or three days. This is a sign it is working.

History and Curiosities:
Ginkgo was first mentioned medicinally in 2800 B.C. in the Chinese materia medica, Pen T'Sao Ching. Mention is made of Ginkgo's use for respiratory ailments, as well as its benefits for brain function. Traditionally, it has been used for memory loss.

It is a very popular herb in the world, used to improve the flow of blood to the brain, to improve memory and alertness in elderly people and blood circulation in general.

An abundance of research has been undertaken on this ancient plant, revealing a wide range of profound and important therapeutic effects. They can be grouped into cardiovascular, neurological and metabolic effects. For more info visit The Herbal Materia Medica of Healthworld Online - click here for the article on Gingko and its cardiovascular indications - you can also find an article about Ginkgo and Alzheimer's Disease .

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