Are ginkgo nuts good for the heart?
Dec 02, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Ginkgo nuts have the effects of consolidating lung qi, relieving asthma and cough, stopping leukorrhea and turbid discharge, and reducing urinary frequency. Flavonols and ginkgo biflavonoids extracted from ginkgo nuts can typically dilate coronary blood vessels in isolated guinea pig heart perfusion experiments. Therefore, to some extent, they help maintain smooth blood flow in cardiac vessels and provide protective benefits to the heart. Thus, ginkgo nuts may be beneficial for heart health.
Ginkgo nuts may be beneficial for heart health.
Ginkgo nuts come from the Ginkgo biloba tree, a member of the Ginkgoaceae family. They have a sweet, bitter, astringent, and neutral nature and possess certain toxicity. Traditionally, ginkgo nuts are used to consolidate lung qi, relieve asthma and cough, stop leukorrhea, and reduce frequent urination. They can be used to treat conditions such as asthma, cough, vaginal discharge, nocturnal emission, gonorrhea, and frequent urination. Flavonols and biflavonoids extracted from ginkgo nuts have been shown to dilate coronary blood vessels in isolated guinea pig heart perfusion experiments. Therefore, to some extent, ginkgo nuts may help maintain clear cardiac blood flow, improve brain function, and provide protective effects on the heart, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits.
Additionally, when consuming ginkgo nuts, individuals should be cautious due to their inherent toxicity. If eaten as a dried nut, they must be thoroughly cooked before consumption. Although cooking may reduce their toxicity, excessive intake should still be avoided to prevent adverse effects and potential harm to health.
