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Page 54
Ginkgo: Ginkgo biloba
Part used: Leaves.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, vasodilator.
Indications: Recent research has confirmed ginkgo's profound activity on brain function and cerebral circulation and clinically it is proving effective in a range of vascular disorders, especially those due to restricted cerebral blood flow and milder problems of normal aging such as weak memory, poor concentration and depression. Ginkgo has been suggested for a wide range of conditions: vertigo, tinnitus, inner ear disturbances including partial deafness, impairment of memory and ability to concentrate, diminished intellectual capacity and alertness as a result of insufficient circulation, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, complications of stroke and skull injuries, diminished sight and hearing ability due to vascular insufficiency, intermittent claudication as a result of arterial obstruction, Raynaud's disease and cerebral vascular and nutritional insufficiency.
Preparations & dosage: Ginkgo is becoming available in a number of different forms. The daily dose used in most studies is 27 mg of ginkgo flavone glycosides, which corresponds to 6 to 12g of leaf, depending on the quality of the leaf. Products are usually standardized to contain 24 percent flavone glycosides and hence are highly concentrated compared to the original leaf. It is recommended at a dose of 120 mg daily in two to three divided doses.
Ginger: Zingiber officinale
Part used: The rootstock.
Actions: Stimulant, carminative, antispasmodic, rubefacient, diaphoretic, emmenagogue.
Indications: Ginger may be used as a stimulant of the peripheral circulation in cases of circulation, chilblains and cramps. In feverish conditions, ginger acts as a useful diaphoretic, promoting perspiration. As a gargle it may be ef-

 
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