Ginkgo biloba is a botanical used to treat circulatory disorders and improve memory. The herb is derived from one of the oldest living tree species, and it is one of the most-often prescribed medications in Germany and France, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some studies show that ginkgo is successful in treating dementia and poor leg circulation. Laboratory studies indicate that the herb gets blood moving by dilating blood vessels and improving the condition of blood platelets.
Effects
Possible side effects while taking ginkgo biloba include nausea, headache and diarrhea. If you have these symptoms and notice that they are getting worse, contact your doctor. Serious side effects include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, a susceptibility to bleeding or bruising, paralysis, slurred speech, fainting, seizures, weakness in parts of your body and severe headache. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any of these side effects.
Allergic Reactions
It is rare for ginkgo to cause serious allergic reactions, but it can happen. Signs to look out for include difficulty breathing, a severe feeling of dizziness, a skin rash and swelling or itching on your throat, face or tongue. If you experience any of these side effects, go to an emergency room or see a doctor immediately. Your body is not reacting well to the herb. There may be other side effects not listed here; watch for other unusual signs and call your doctor or pharmacist if you feel strange when taking ginkgo.
Drug Interactions
Ginkgo may react with some prescription and nonprescription medications, including other herbal products. If you are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen), anti-seizure medications, trazodone or blood thinners (heparin and warfarin), let your doctor know before taking ginkgo. The combination may make you more at risk for bleeding. Specific herbs that may cause a negative interaction are ginger, danshen and garlic. Continue to take aspirin if it's prescribed by your doctor, but tell him that you are also taking ginkgo, as the risk of bleeding may be greater. Your risk for seizure increases if you take the herb in conjunction with isoniazid, theophylline, phenothiazines or certain antidepressants.
Other Precautions
It is advised that you take ginkgo under your doctor's supervision. If you have a planned surgery, stop taking the herb at least 36 hours beforehand to limit bleeding problems. Pregnant women should not take ginkgo, nor should women who are breastfeeding. People with epilepsy are at risk of seizures if they take the herb, so they should avoid it.
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