What to know about Ginkgo biloba (maidenhair tree) before using it medicinally

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as maidenhair tree, is renowned for its profound health benefits, including enhancing cognitive function, improving memory, and reducing inflammation in the body.

This resilient tree is highly valued in the horticultural world for its unique, fan-shaped leaves and ability to thrive in a variety of environments. From a botanical standpoint, Ginkgo biloba is considered a living fossil, with its leaves and seeds containing a unique combination of flavonoids, terpenoids, and bilobalide that contribute to its medicinal properties.

The tree's long history dates back thousands of years, with references to its use in traditional Chinese medicine appearing as early as the Shang Dynasty.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Ginkgo biloba.

What are the medicinal properties of Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba helps with memory improvement, cognitive function, and blood vessel health. Its medicinal properties have been used to treat dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and other age-related disorders. Additionally, it is used to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The active constituents of Ginkgo biloba include flavonoids, terpenoids, and bilobalide, which provide its medicinal properties. These compounds have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce oxidative stress, contributing to its neuroprotective effects.

The leaves, seeds, and bark of the Ginkgo biloba tree are used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of active constituents. The seeds and bark are also used, but to a lesser extent.

When used improperly, Ginkgo biloba can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and stomach upset. In rare cases, it may interact with blood thinners and decrease platelet count, increasing the risk of bleeding. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use it with caution.

Precautions when using Ginkgo biloba medicinally include starting with low doses, monitoring blood pressure, and consulting a healthcare professional, especially for those taking medications or with underlying medical conditions. It should not be used by individuals with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners without medical supervision.

What are the horticulural aspects of Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba grow well in full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It prefers a warm and humid climate with average temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. It can tolerate some frost but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can be detrimental.

When planting a Ginkgo biloba, it's essential to choose a location with ample space for its mature size, which can reach up to 30 meters tall. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, adding organic matter like compost or fertilizer to improve soil fertility. Plant the tree at the same depth as it was in the container.

Ginkgo biloba leaves are typically harvested in the fall, around October and November, when they have turned yellow. However, the harvesting process involves collecting the leaves, rather than cutting them from the tree. Leaves should be dried immediately to preserve their medicinal properties and prevent spoilage.

Ginkgo biloba is susceptible to pests like scale, mealybugs, and spider mites, which can be managed with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. It's also vulnerable to diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and canker, caused by fungi like Phytophthora and Cytospora. Regular maintenance and pruning can help prevent the spread of diseases.

What are the botanical aspects of Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is a distinctive, long-lived tree species with unique morphological characteristics. Its fan-shaped leaves have two leaflets, with a prominent midrib and a notched tip. The bark is gray, smooth, and often develops deep furrows with age. The trunk can grow up to 2.5 meters in diameter.

Taxonomically, Ginkgo biloba belongs to the division Ginkgophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Ginkgoales, family Ginkgoaceae, and genus Ginkgo. The species is further divided into several cultivars, including 'Autumn Gold', 'Golden Eclipse', and 'Princeton Sentry'. Its unique morphology has made it a subject of interest in plant systematics.

There are several variants of Ginkgo biloba, including the cultivars mentioned earlier, as well as natural hybrids and cultivars developed from seeds. Some of these variants have been developed for their unique growth habits, such as compact or dwarf varieties, while others have been bred for their improved leaf color or texture. These variants can be used in landscaping and horticulture.

Ginkgo biloba is native to East Asia, with a natural range that extends from southern China to Korea and Japan. It has been cultivated in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia, and has become a popular ornamental tree in urban landscapes. It can thrive in a wide range of environments, from full sun to partial shade.

The life cycle of Ginkgo biloba is complex, with a unique reproductive strategy that involves separate male and female trees. The male trees produce catkins, while the female trees produce ovules that contain a single seed. The seeds are dispersed by wind, and can remain viable for up to 2 years. The tree can live for up to 1,000 years, making it one of the longest-lived tree species in the world.

What are the historical aspects of Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species. Historically, its leaves and seeds were used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, bronchitis, and menstrual problems.

In ancient Chinese mythology, the Ginkgo biloba was associated with the god of immortality, Xi Wangmu. According to legend, the tree's leaves were said to have healing properties and were used to create an elixir of immortality. The tree was also believed to have been planted by the gods.

The Ginkgo biloba has been imbued with symbolic meanings across cultures. In Japan, it represents longevity and fertility, while in China, it's a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. In some cultures, the tree's unique fan-shaped leaves are believed to ward off evil spirits.

Historical texts, such as the "Shennong Ben Cao Jing", a Chinese medical text from the 3rd century AD, document the use of Ginkgo biloba in traditional medicine. The text describes the tree's leaves and seeds as a treatment for various ailments, including fever and respiratory problems.

Archaeological finds, including the discovery of Ginkgo biloba fossils in China dating back 270 million years, provide evidence of the tree's long history. Artifacts, such as ancient Chinese ceramics and paintings, feature depictions of the Ginkgo biloba, further illustrating its significance in art and culture.