Ginkgo Biloba for Edema

Fluid retention in the feet and ankles is a common medical condition, known as edema. It is mostly occurs in the elderly, pregnant women, and obese people. 

The skin might look stretched, shiny or puffy, depending on the amount of fluid trapped between body’s tissues. Though there are several over the counter diuretics available to treat edema, some people prefer using herbs to alleviate swelling. 

Ginkgo Biloba is one such effective herb that helps reduce water retention and swelling. Although it is used primarily as a memory aid, it may be quite useful in reducing edema. 

There are several natural remedies for fluid retention that contains ginkgo biloba, among other active ingredients. You may consider using Capisette which contains ginkgo biloba, dandelion extract, horse chestnut, and buchu extracts. 

How Does It Work: 

Ginkgo improves the blood circulation in the body by dilating blood vessels and diminishing the stickiness of blood platelets. 

For edema-sufferers, improved circulation may lead to a reduction in swelling. A trusted health care practitioner should recommend a safe dosage of ginkgo for your edema. 

Your health and the particular cause of edema are important factors that the doctor should consider before suggesting a dose. 

The general recommended dose for adults range from 120 to 240 mg. Ginkgo is available in various forms, such as tablets, tinctures, teas, and capsules. 

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, initial results might take four to six weeks to show, although they should increase after that. 

Since edema is sometimes an indication of a serious problem with the kidneys, heart, or liver, it's crucial to consult a doctor for diagnosis before using ginkgo and other treatments. 

Certain medications might also cause water retention. Some of them are blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and birth control pills. 

If you suspect that your medications are causing edema, talk to your doctor to find out whether a different medicine might be better for you. 

Are There Any Side Effects: 

Ginkgo is generally safe to use; however, people with epilepsy should not use the herb due to the possible risk of seizures. 

Some mild side effects of ginkgo include headache, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, nausea, dizziness, or allergic skin reactions. More severe allergic reactions have also been reported. 

Ginkgo might increase risk of bleeding, so people who take anticoagulants, and have bleeding disorders, or have scheduled surgery or dental procedures should talk to a doctor before using ginkgo for edema. 

You must tell your health care practitioner about any complementary and alternative practices you use before taking ginkgo supplements to treat edema. 

If you are pregnant or breast feeding, avoid taking ginkgo or any other product that contains ginkgo. 

Are There Any Drug Interactions: 

You should avoid taking ginkgo with ibuprofen as it might slow blood clotting and increase the chance of bleeding and bruising. 

Ginkgo might interact with anticoagulants / antiplatelet drugs. Some medications that you must avoid if you are taking ginkgo are: 

Aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), enoxaparin (Lovenox), ticlopidine (Ticlid), dalteparin (Fragmin), heparin, indomethacin (Indocin), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.