Posted by dj on August 28, 2000, at 17:53:29
In reply to Re: Brain blood flow and depression..., posted by shar on August 28, 2000, at 0:10:46
>I did buy some niacin which (I was told by my mom's cardiologist) should help with circulation in the brain. Of course, then I have the all >over body flush and itch when I take it.
What is niacin, Shar?Gigko may be something to consider. The following is from Dr. Andrew Weil's website:
http://www.pathfinder.com/drweilSharpen Your Senses With Ginkgo?
I've heard a lot about incorporating ginkgo into my life -- yet I wanted to make sure what benefits, if any, it contains. Is the hype true? Why should I take ginkgo? I'm a 27-year-old male, healthy, and I want to become more holistic in my life.
-- Jay White
(Published 6/12/97) Ginkgo is great, but I don't think you should take it just because it's there. There is a very large body of medical research showing that ginkgo increases blood circulation throughout the body, especially the head. It appears to make the membranes of red blood cells more elastic, allowing them to squeeze more easily through capillaries and small arteries. It also builds capillary strength and reduces blood loss from capillary vessels.
Ginkgo is particularly useful for older people with insufficient blood circulation to the brain; such circulatory insufficiency is a common cause of mental deficits -- poor memory, inability to concentrate and confusion. It's also a useful treatment for tinnitus and vertigo (through increased circulation to the ear), male impotence and peripheral arterial disease; finally, it's a good general tonic for elderly people.Ginkgo is extracted from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, the tree. The extract is very popular in Europe, and is approved in Germany for treating cerebral dysfunction. It is grown on plantations such as one in Sumter, S.C., where 10 million trees grow on 1,000 acres.
The effective dose of gingko is two tablets three times a day with meals. It usually takes six to eight weeks of use before the herb begins to show benefits. Ginkgo sometimes (albeit rarely) causes side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, headaches and allergic skin reactions -- so if you use it, watch for these.
I wouldn't recommend ginkgo to a healthy 27-year-old male just because you want to become more holistic. You would do better to work at developing a healthy lifestyle, as I advise in my 8 Week Program, through diet, exercise, relaxation techniques, getting enough rest and abandoning unhealthy habits. Then use supplements selectively for specific problems you may have. I do recommend antioxidant vitamins and minerals for everyone, but I generally recommend saving herbal remedies for when you need them.
poster:dj
thread:259
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20000813/msgs/277.html