Gingko Biloba

Also known as the maidenhair tree as well as silver apricot, gingko biloba is located through many various parts of the world. It is actually a very ancient tree which is believed to date back millions of years. Chinese healing practices have traditionally used gingko for many different purposes.

Traditionally, the Chinese people have used the seeds of the gingko biloba for the purposes of healing while the leaves of the tree have tended to see medicinal use in Western healing methods. It is thought that the seeds are useful in treating various coughs and particularly asthma. The leaves are additionally believed to provide treatment for such medical problems as hearing loss, depression and poor circulation as well as asthma.

Mental performance is thought to be improved by use of gingko biloba due to the fact that it increases the flow of oxygen to the brain. The risk of heart disease may be reduced by using gingko because it contains properties that may inhibit blood clots. Lethargy, fatigue, allergic reaction, overall eye health and even skin wrinkles may also be improved through the use of gingko.

Interestingly, the tree is thought to protect against fire. Due to this reason, it is commonly found in temple as well as shrine grounds all over Asia. Although numerous fires have been reported in Asia where other types of nearby trees and plants completely perished in the flames, reports indicate the gingko trees amazingly survived.

During the bombings of Japan during World War II, buildings and numerous trees were completely destroyed; however several gingko trees managed to survive. This interesting phenomenon is thought to be due to the fact that gingko trees contain a sap that acts as a flame retardant when secreted from the tree. Today, gingko trees are still used for ornamental purposes through many Asian cities. They are used to line both streets and lawns. Beyond its ability to act as a flame retardant, gingko wood and bark is thought to retard the damage of insects and decay. For this reason, the wood has been used in construction of cabinets, Buddhist altars, Chess boards, paper and various other types of containers.

Gingko has been associated with some side effects; although only in rare cases. These reports include nausea, upset stomach and headache. Due to the fact that gingko is thought to act as a blood thinning agent, it is recommended that caution be exercised when combining it with other anti-coagulants or blood thinning medications or herbs.

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