Experiencing Fatigue? Learn How Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng Can Revitalize Your Mind and Body

Do you feel like your mind is lacking energy? You're not alone. In today's fast-paced world, mental fatigue and brain fog are common issues. But, could nature offer a solution to unlock your brain's full potential?

Recent research indicates that the answer is yes. Scientists highlight two ancient botanical powerhouses that have been known to enhance cognitive function for centuries. From the oldest tree species to the renowned "king of tonic herbs," this dynamic pair might be the key to achieving optimal mental performance.

 Overview 

• Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng are two of the most popular herbs in natural and traditional Chinese medicine, known for their long history of use.

• Both herbs provide unique brain health benefits, such as enhancing cognition, reducing brain fog, stress, and anxiety, and promoting overall well-being.

• When used together, Panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba seem to have a more potent effect, improving cognitive function and neuroprotection through their combined actions.

Why Choose Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng?

Throughout history, ginkgo biloba and panax ginseng extracts have been highly regarded by various cultures. They are considered essential in traditional Chinese medicine, with ginseng often referred to as "the king of tonic herbs" and the "elixir of life."

Both Panax ginseng and ginkgo biloba have been traditionally used to support cognitive function, reduce stress, and enhance overall health. Their combined usage boosts cognitive function and neuroprotection, as studies have shown their synergistic effects. These herbs may be particularly beneficial for students facing exams, as they can enhance cognitive function, aid stress management, and provide energy.

Panax Ginseng: A Unique Form of Ginseng

There are only 13 identified species of ginseng, with Panax ginseng (also known as Korean ginseng) and American ginseng being the most widely used in supplements.

It's crucial to differentiate genuine Panax ginseng extracts from other varieties that may not offer the same beneficial compounds. Panax ginseng is also known by various names, including Asian ginseng, Asiatic ginseng, Manchurian ginseng, mountain ginseng, true ginseng, and wild ginseng.

It's important to note that Panax ginseng should not be confused with or used interchangeably with other types of ginseng like Siberian ginseng, American ginseng, Thai ginseng, black ginseng, desert ginseng, Brazilian ginseng, Indian ginseng, or Chinese ginseng, as they have distinct differences.

Panax Ginseng Extracts

Panax ginseng is derived from the root of a 4- to 6-year-old herb known as Korean ginseng, typically cultivated on mountain slopes. The term "panax" translates to "cure-all," reflecting its diverse medicinal uses.

Ginseng is known to enhance memory, clear brain fog, and combat tiredness and fatigue. It acts as an adaptogen, assisting the body in managing stress. Panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba are commonly used together to improve cognitive function and neuroprotection, leveraging their synergistic effects.

The main benefits of ginseng are attributed to active compounds called ginsenosides and their metabolites. These compounds possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.

Additional active ingredients found in Panax ginseng include polysaccharides, peptides, phytosterols, polyacetylenes, polyacetylenic alcohols, and fatty acids.

Ginseng is frequently used to enhance focus, reduce stress hormones, lower inflammation, regulate blood sugar levels, and support immune system function. It also shows promise in preventing neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases.

Ginkgo Biloba Extract

The extract of ginkgo biloba is derived from the Ginkgo biloba tree, the longest-living tree species globally, also known as the maidenhair tree. These trees have survived since the time of dinosaurs and are known for their resilience.

Ginkgo biloba contains valuable compounds such as flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol) and terpenoids (ginkgolides and bilobalides). Flavonoids act as potent antioxidants, while terpenoids aid in improving circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing platelet aggregation.

Several clinical trials have explored the impact of ginkgo biloba on cognitive function and overall health. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) demonstrated that ginkgo biloba extract enhanced cognitive function in dementia patients. Another study in the journal Human Psychopharmacology revealed improvements in memory and cognitive performance among healthy individuals. These findings suggest the potential advantages of ginkgo biloba in supporting cognitive function and brain health.

Health Advantages of Ginkgo Biloba and Panax Ginseng

Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng are renowned for their numerous health benefits, particularly in enhancing cognitive function, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving blood flow to the brain. They also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, safeguarding brain neurons and decreasing the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.

Ginkgo biloba has demonstrated its ability to enhance memory, concentration, and mental clarity, whereas Panax ginseng reduces fatigue, enhances mood, and boosts mental performance.

A study conducted at the University of Reading, involving 256 healthy middle-aged volunteers in a 14-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, revealed that the combined use of ginkgo and ginseng led to an average 7.5% improvement in memory quality. This enhancement was observed in both working memory and long-term memory during and after the dosing period. Some studies suggest that both Panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba could be beneficial in treating Alzheimer's disease and dementia by improving brain blood flow and protecting neurons from damage, emphasizing their synergistic effects supported by clinical and traditional evidence.

Both herbs are classified as nootropics, substances designed to improve cognitive performance, and are popular within the neurohacking movement, a trend focused on enhancing brain function through diet, lifestyle, and supplements.

Understanding Ginkgo Biloba's Impact on Cognitive Function

Ginkgo is recognized for its ability to boost memory, concentration, and mental clarity, reducing the risk of cognitive decline. Notably, ginkgo biloba has shown positive effects on cognitive function in both healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairment.

A review published in 2015 indicated that ginkgo could stabilize or slow the decline in cognitive function among individuals with existing cognitive issues or dementia. Additionally, a 2017 review of 12 studies revealed potential benefits of ginkgo in doses exceeding 200 gm per day for at least five months in individuals with dementia.

So, how does ginkgo biloba deliver these benefits?

Enhances Blood Flow

Ginkgo biloba supports cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain, enhancing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. This boost in blood circulation enhances cognitive performance, memory, and concentration. Improved blood flow to the brain helps maintain cognitive function, energize the brain, and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Provides Antioxidant Protection

The flavonoids and terpenoids found in ginkgo biloba extract possess antioxidant properties that shield brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. Moreover, ginkgo biloba has been shown to inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF), a compound that can induce inflammation and harm brain cells.

Boosts Neurotransmitters

Ginkgo biloba aids in the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, crucial for maintaining a healthy mood and cognition. These neurotransmitters also enhance attention, focus, and help clear brain fog.

Enhancing Cognitive Function with Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce oxidative stress, safeguarding brain neurons and lowering the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Its anti-inflammatory mechanism involves reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that trigger inflammation and oxidative stress.

Ginseng stimulates the growth of new brain cells, supporting cognitive function. A 2013 study concluded that Panax ginseng significantly enhances physical and intellectual work capacity.

Panax ginseng also influences mood by decreasing the production of stress hormones such as cortisol, mitigating the adverse effects of stress on the body and brain.

Additional Benefits Beyond Memory

Enhanced Circulation and Heart Disease Protection

Ginkgo and ginseng not only improve blood flow to the brain and neurons but also enhance overall circulation, supporting heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease.

A study in 2008 revealed that patients with heart disease experienced immediate improved blood flow to various organs after supplementing with ginkgo, attributed to a 12% rise in nitric oxide levels. Another study observed a similar effect in older adults taking ginkgo biloba extract. Numerous factors, likely linked to its anti-inflammatory properties, may explain this phenomenon.

Defense Against Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally. The combination of ginkgo and ginseng may protect nerve cells in the brain from strokes. A laboratory study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2022 examined the impact of a blend of Panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba extracts on rats with cerebral ischemia, a type of stroke. The study found that this herbal combination enhanced neurological function by reducing excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation. This was achieved by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key element in the inflammatory response, and activating the CAMK4/CREB pathway, which supports neuroprotection and brain regeneration processes. Some preliminary studies have also suggested the benefits of ginkgo biloba and ginseng in stroke recovery.

Enhanced Athletic Performance

Improving physical performance implies the ability to perform physical tasks with greater intensity, speed, and power. Fatigue, especially with age, can diminish physical performance, but ginseng may offer assistance.

Research suggests that ginseng can decrease fatigue and enhance physical performance. The widespread use of Panax ginseng as an energy enhancer supports this notion, although research outcomes vary.

A review involving 1,298 patients in 2022 indicated that ginseng effectively reduces fatigue associated with aging and health conditions, particularly chronic illnesses like cancer.

Stress Reduction with Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng alleviates stress by regulating the body's stress response system, known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Active compounds in Panax ginseng, such as ginsenosides, interact with the HPA axis to reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol, alleviating anxiety, fatigue, and other stress-related symptoms. Additionally, Panax ginseng has demonstrated improvements in cognitive function and mental performance, which can be impaired by stress.

Supplementing with Ginkgo and Ginseng

Effectively supplementing with Ginkgo biloba and ginseng involves timing. It's advisable to take them in the morning or early afternoon due to their stimulating effects. Avoid consuming them late in the day to prevent sleep disturbances.

Tea as a Natural Source

Making a tea is a simple and natural way to incorporate ginkgo and ginseng into your routine.

Boil a pot of water, add one teaspoon of fresh ginseng and one teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba per cup of water. Allow it to steep for five to ten minutes, strain, pour into cups, and add honey or monk fruit sweetener if desired.

Herbal Extracts: Standardized vs. Non-standardized

It's essential to note that ginseng supplements exhibit considerable variability in the market, making it challenging to find products with consistent results for both consumers and healthcare professionals. Extract standardization is crucial for ensuring effectiveness and safety.

Standardized extracts were developed to create a consistent product for clinical trials. Standardization of botanical extracts is vital for ensuring a reproducible product for evaluating effectiveness and safety.

There are two primary types of standardized products:

• Identifying and quantifying an extract to a specific chemical marker compound.

• Identifying and concentrating one or more active constituents, essentially creating a chemical isolate. This process displaces other naturally occurring compounds in favor of one or more specific compounds.

One standardized ginseng extract is G115, a drug preparation known for its consistent safety and efficacy in natural medicine. Studies on G115 have demonstrated benefits for physical performance, cognitive function, metabolism, and the immune system. Another standardized product, Gincosan®, utilizes G115 and was registered in Switzerland in 1989. Ginkgo biloba extract has been standardized to GK501. When purchasing capsules and tablets, opt for these standardized formulations for a quality product that can predict how the supplement will perform for you.

Topical Applications

Ginseng and ginkgo are available in topical applications designed to address skin issues like acne and wrinkles. While research on these applications is limited, there is growing interest in this area, possibly leading to more studies in the future.

Safety and Dosage

Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it is essential to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.