Ginko Biloba and Your Eyes

Ginko the oldest living tree species has lived on this planet for about 200 million years. Ginko Biloba extract is commonly prescribed in France and Germany, and one of the most well researched herbs in the world. Known as a circulatory stimulant, it is a conduit that makes blood vessel walls more flexible so that red blood cells can squeeze through tight capillaries. This activity makes it easier for blood and oxygen to reach the brain and extremities or other places characterized by fine capillaries like the eyes and ears.

Ginko works by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout the body’s network of blood vessels that supply blood oxygen to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency, regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain.

Most eye specialists now agree: good nutrition plays a big role in long-term eye health. Eating well, drinking lots of water and taking antioxidants help keep vision strong and eye structures healthy far into old age.Diabetic retinopathy: Studies have shown that ginko increases blood flow to the retina, and can help slow retinal deterioration resulting in an increase of visual acuity. This disorder to the eye is evident by alternations in eye structure, thickening of retinal capillaries and an increased permeability of retinal tissue. In time these changes lead to vision problems, or blindness.

Scientists speculate that many diabetic retinal changes are caused by free radicals – or in part by oxidative stress. Studies conducted on diabetic rats show that rats fed Ginkgo biloba extract were protected against oxidative stress to the eyes and suffered less retinal damage than animals not given ginko extract.

Despite the current lack of large human studies for ginko’s effectiveness in treating the human retina, many holistic and herbal practitioners already use ginko in treating patients with cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

Vision changes or conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetes requires the care of a physician. Do not substitute ginko for an eye exam or a visit to your doctor, talk with your health care provider about ginko, and find out if it may be a useful addition to your course of treatment