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Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Ginkgoaceae
  • Common Names: Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree, Bai Guo
  • Parts Used: Leaves, seeds (less common)

Description

Ginkgo is a deciduous tree native to China and known for its fan-shaped leaves and long lifespan. Often called a “living fossil,” it is one of the oldest tree species on Earth, with medicinal uses that date back thousands of years. The leaves are primarily used in herbal medicine to enhance circulation and cognitive function.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for asthma, bronchitis, and cognitive disorders.
  • Revered for its ability to improve memory and concentration.
  • Employed as a circulatory tonic to support cardiovascular health.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)
  • Terpenoids (ginkgolides, bilobalide)
  • Organic acids
  • Proanthocyanidins
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Circulatory stimulant
  • Antioxidant
  • Neuroprotective
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Vasodilator

Medicinal Uses

1. Cognitive Function and Memory:
Ginkgo is widely used to enhance memory, focus, and mental clarity, making it beneficial for individuals with cognitive decline or conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

2. Circulatory Health:
It improves blood flow by dilating blood vessels and is effective in treating peripheral vascular disorders, including leg cramps and varicose veins.

3. Antioxidant Protection:
Ginkgo’s flavonoids protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, supporting overall longevity and wellness.

4. Mood and Mental Health:
Studies suggest that ginkgo may help alleviate anxiety and improve mood, especially in older adults.

5. Eye and Ear Health:
By improving circulation, ginkgo may help manage conditions like tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and age-related macular degeneration.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried ginkgo leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of ginkgo tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 120-240 mg of standardized ginkgo extract per dose, taken 1-2 times daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.
  • Blood Thinners: Ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when combined with anticoagulant medications.
  • Seizure Disorders: High doses may increase the risk of seizures in susceptible individuals.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic: Cooling and stimulating, ginkgo helps balance excess vata while calming pitta and kapha in moderation.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine: Tonifies the kidneys and lungs, improves circulation, and resolves phlegm.

Combinations

  • For Cognitive Support: Combine with gotu kola and rosemary.
  • For Circulation: Combine with cayenne and hawthorn.
  • For Tinnitus: Combine with black cohosh and ginger.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are harvested in late summer or early autumn when their medicinal content is highest.
  • Drying: Dry the leaves in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried leaves or powdered extract in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have confirmed ginkgo’s role in improving cognitive function, memory, and circulation. Research is ongoing into its potential for treating neurodegenerative diseases, eye disorders, and cardiovascular conditions.

Ginkgo remains a vital herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering support for cognitive health, circulation, and overall longevity.