Ginkgo Leaf (Ginkgo biloba)
Information about Ginkgo Biloba
The herb ginkgo is the leaf of Ginkgo biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree. Because this tree is the oldest species of plant known with no surviving close relatives, gingko is referred to as a living fossil.
Native to China, gingko has been used in food and medicine for centuries. It is said that the elephant's long memory is due to eating gingko leaves. You'll enjoy the mildly sweet leaf as tea.
Ginkgo biloba is referred to as a living fossil because it is one of the oldest and longest living species of tree in the world. The tree is native to China, where its leaf has been used in traditional medicine for centuries
Although gingko leaf contains at least 40 known compounds, only two produce pharmacological effects—antioxidant flavonoids and terpenoids. The latter includes ginkgolides and bilobalides, which have been the subject of numerous clinical studies.
Imagine a plant that has existed for over 190 million years. The ginkgo tree has been around that long and is considered the oldest tree on earth.
The ginkgo tree grows as high as 100 feet. It is native to China and is also grown in Japan, France, and South Carolina. The leaves and the fruit containing the seeds are removed from the tree in the fall.
Origin: China
Active compounds: Ginkgolides, bilobalides, flavonoids.
Plant Part Used: Leaf
Storage Tips: Keep in a sealed container away from strong light, heat and humidity.
Appearance and Aroma: Fibrous and leafy without noticeable aroma.
Culinary Uses: Use in tea blends.
Flavor Profile: Mildly sweet, but not commonly used in cooking.
Safety: Check with your doctor before using this herb if you take other medications. Do not take more than the recommended dose of Ginkgo as too much may cause toxicity. In some countries the use of this herb is restricted. Consult your health care provider before beginning use of any herb.
Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Health Canada or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.