Gingko Biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree and silver apricot, can be found in various parts throughout the world. This ancient tree, thought to date back millions of years, has traditionally been used in Chinese healing. Additionally, because the tree is thought to protect against fire it can frequently be found in shrine and temple grounds throughout Asia. There have been several reported fires throughout Asia where other types of trees perished, but the Gingko survived. Several Gingko trees survived the bombings of Japan during World War II, while other nearby trees and buildings were completely destroyed. This is thought to be due to a sap that is secreted from the tree, acting as a flame retardant. The Gingko tree is still used in Asian cities today as an ornamental tree, lining streets and lawns. The bark and wood of the Gingko tree is known to be resistant to insects and decay; which has promoted its use in cabinets, Chess boards, Buddhist altars, paper and containers.
The seeds of the Gingko Biloba have been traditionally used in Chinese healing practices while the leaves have been used in more modern Western healing methods. The seeds are thought to be useful in treating asthma as well as coughs. In western healing, the leaves are used for a variety of treatments including poor circulation, memory loss, hearing loss, depression and asthma. It is believed that Gingko increases mental performance from increasing the flow of oxygen to the brain. Additionally, Gingko contains properties that may inhibit blood clots, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Other benefits of Gingko include reduction of lethargy and fatigue, skin wrinkles, depression and allergic reactions as well as support eye health.
In rare cases Gingko has been known to cause nausea, stomach upset and headache. Caution should be used however with combining Gigko with other blood thinning medications or herbs.
The active ingredient in Gingko Biloba is terpenes, therefore products purchased for maximum medicinal benefit should contain Gingko extract as well as Gingko leaf compound. Extract only products will not produce maximum health benefits.
The seeds of the Gingko Biloba have been traditionally used in Chinese healing practices while the leaves have been used in more modern Western healing methods. The seeds are thought to be useful in treating asthma as well as coughs. In western healing, the leaves are used for a variety of treatments including poor circulation, memory loss, hearing loss, depression and asthma. It is believed that Gingko increases mental performance from increasing the flow of oxygen to the brain. Additionally, Gingko contains properties that may inhibit blood clots, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Other benefits of Gingko include reduction of lethargy and fatigue, skin wrinkles, depression and allergic reactions as well as support eye health.
In rare cases Gingko has been known to cause nausea, stomach upset and headache. Caution should be used however with combining Gigko with other blood thinning medications or herbs.
The active ingredient in Gingko Biloba is terpenes, therefore products purchased for maximum medicinal benefit should contain Gingko extract as well as Gingko leaf compound. Extract only products will not produce maximum health benefits.
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