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More Helpful Healing Herbs: Eyebright to Gotu Kola - Page 2

© Kathern Welsh

GINKGO BILOBA: (Circulation, memory and vascular problems.) Ginkgo comes from the ginkgo tree, which is the only surviving species of a group of plants known as ginkgoales, which were found in the days of the dinosaurs! Man's appreciation of the beauty and usefulness of this tree for shade has resulted in the discovery of a wonderful healing herb with many therapeutic applications. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is caused by cholesterol plaque deposits in the walls of the arteries and causes the walls to harden and constrict, which causes another condition, hardening of the arteries. Another circulatory disorder common to smokers is Buerger's disease. It is a chronic inflammation of the veins and arteries in the lower extremities. Another serious circulatory condition is Raynaud's disease. The fingers, toes and tip of the nose are affected by constriction and spasm of the blood vessels and can lead to gangrene if left untreated.

Ginkgo is able to improve memory by enhancing the circulation to the brain. Other conditions improved by increased circulation are: bruising, capillary fragility, sight and hearing. Increased blood flow is a necessity to good overall health. Ginkgo aids in this important action and thus is a terrific treatment for many ailments we faced today. Two capsules per day are a good maintenance dose.

GINSENG: (Stamina and strength.) There are three basic types of ginseng and use of ginseng in combination with other herbs seems to enhance their performance. One of the best known uses for ginseng has been to boost sexuality. It is also good for increased energy and to alleviate stress. Siberian ginseng has shown most promise in these areas. Two capsules per day are good for general stamina and an average of four capsules before expending excess energy provides extra stamina and power. Ginseng is available in capsule form and fluid extract and can be taken as tea.

GOLDENSEAL: (Infection, slows bleeding, diabetes.) Goldenseal has proven to be a great aid in fighting infections, slows bleeding to a minimum and has been used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism. Type II diabetics have been helped by its ability to bring elevated blood sugar levels plunging down and the way it speeds up the production of insulin. This effect of goldenseal is something that most hypoglycemics should be aware of and watch out for. Two capsules twice daily with meals help diabetics, but isn't a cure.

GOTU KOLA: (Mental alertness and memory.) Gotu Kola has been proven to sharpen memory and seems to work best when taken on a consistent basis. Four capsules a day with meals is the recommended dose. In an article by Dr. Rao in 1973, he reported an experiment where children in a handicapped school were given 500-mg tablets of gotu cola each day for three months. Shy and withdrawn children who had been very restless and fidgety became expressive, communicative and cooperative. They also exhibited increased powers of concentration and attention. This study, along with others, has given some herbal companies the notion to promote this herb as "brain food." This claim may not be too far from the truth!

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