Ginseng and Ginkgo May Improve Mental Function

Ginseng and Ginkgo May Improve Mental Function

NEW YORK--A combination of ginseng and Ginkgo biloba extracts may significantly improve mental capabilities in middle-aged, healthy people. Presented at a National Institute of Mental Health seminar, the results from a recent study show that this cocktail may promote fast, accurate thinking, improve short- and long-term memory and reduce mental fatigue.

During the 14-week, double-blind placebo-controlled trial, the cognitive skills of 256 healthy volunteers between the ages of 38 and 66 were observed performing a battery of tests. Using the Computerized Cognitive Assessment System, a testing method accepted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the trial found that volunteers consuming the herbal combination improved cognitive function by7.5 percent compared to the control group on placebo.

This study was sponsored by Pharmaton Natural Health Products, a division of Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. For further information, visitwww.boehringer-ingelheim.com.