Modern research shows that ginkgo increases blood flow and circulation in the brain, making it a valuable botanical to enhance memory function, mental sharpness and other cognitive functions. Ginkgo extract also improves circulation throughout the body and thus improves symptoms of arterial insufficiency, a condition in which poor circulation to the lower extremities causes the legs to become severely fatigued and cramped after walking only a short distance. The leaves of the ancient Ginkgo biloba tree have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to improve brain health, and ginkgo extract is one of the most popular supplements in Europe.