Ginkgo Biloba: Also Popular as Ginkgo, this tree, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammation, is known to be full of medicinal benefits. This tree is known by several names among the locals and is known to have its roots in China, and grows in India as well. It belongs to the Ginkgoaceae.
What is Ginkgo Biloba?
The ginkgo tree is known to have emerged somewhere in China 200 million years ago. It was also seen at a similar time in Korea and Japan, and now Europe and the United States are also having such a health-beneficial tree. Imagine watching such a beautiful tree growing in the parts of Uttarakhand, bringing nature wellness near us. Yes, this plant grows in the Uttarakhand hills in India, succeeding higher in the magical medicinal plants. It is known to work on your overall wellness, and its antioxidants might be helpful for your overall memory.
History Of Ginkgo Biloba
Maiden hair or plant Ginkgo Biloba has its origin in China and is thousands of years old. Blow, with several medicinal uses, it also earned the name as a living fossil. You heard it correctly! It is the only member left from the original ancient plants, making the immense ginkgo biloba uses so desirable by all. In some cultural beliefs, this tree is a sign of hope, longevity, and resilience, as even after facing so many natural hardships, this tree can survive for thousands of years.
Where is the Ginkgo Tree Grown?
The ginkgo tree is known to have emerged somewhere in China 200 million years ago. It was also seen at a similar time in Korea and Japan, and now Europe and the United States are also having such a health-beneficial tree. It is known to work on your overall wellness, and its antioxidants might be helpful for your overall memory.
Facts Associated With Ginkgo Biloba
Besides the label of ancient fossil, this tree can withstand any environmental condition- extreme heat, snow, drought or any soil type. The trees are seen surviving for 1000+ years, and the twist is that most of them are grown near temples. Male and female trees are different, and only female ginkgo trees can produce fleshy seeds. Some of these trees are more than 1500 years old. They hold great importance in Chinese medicine, too.
Different Popular Names of the Ginkgo Biloba Plant
The ginkgo biloba plant has several names, but the first name by which it is known locally is maidenhair tree due to the shape of its leaves. Japanese Silver Apricot, Silver Apricot, Living Fossil, Fossil Tree, Icho and Ginkyo are some of the common ones. In China, ginkgo is known as Yinxing, Baiguo, Yajiao, and Gongsunshu. In Japan, it is called Icho.
Ginkgo Biloba Benefits- The More You Know, the More Is Left
People discuss several immunity boosters and wellness products while discussing this medicinal plant, but have you wondered what all the ginkgo biloba plant can contribute to wellness and immunity?
Ginkgo seeds and even leaves can be seen in several popular traditional Chinese medicines. Presently, ginkgo biloba tablets are trending, so guess what! They are known to have several known and unknown benefits for one to enjoy.
Medicinal plants are powerful. It is said that when ginkgo leaves turn golden, they become full of benefits.
Let's explore the associated benefits of the ginkgo in detail:
1. Might Have Powerful Antioxidant
Levels of the powerful terpenoids and flavonoids in ginkgo are high and are believed to have an intense level of antioxidant effect. Free radicals might have a negative effect, and these antioxidants might neutralize them.
2. Might Help In Controlling Inflammation
Inflammation happens naturally after injury or when some foreign substance ends up inside the body. The role of immunity components is huge as they fight against inflammation and heal any area that has a wound. Ginkgo might help you with its anti inflammation properties.
3. Might Improves Blood Circulation
Ginkgo seeds might have properties that might help in improving blood circulation in different body parts.
4. Might Help With The Memory and Overall Mental Wellbeing
Ginkgo might help to control anxiety and stress. It might also help people strengthen their memory, which becomes a common problem as one grows in age. It was termed as a Leaf of hope for ages, and it seems this hope ensured the patient is never near anxiety and stress.
5. Might Help To Deal With Severe Headaches
Headaches can be killing at times, and there can be various reasons behind them. Ginkgo might be your saviour due to the presence of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in it.
However, one needs to remember that their health specialist is the right person to explain what is right for you. Do not add anything to your daily life without consulting your doctor, as what might be good for one may not be useful to others.
Ginkgo Supplement Forms
Nowadays, the geographical barrier is taken care of, and in the growing import-export market, ginkgo supplements are available around the globe. It is available in different forms, like:
- Tablets
- Ayurvedic Kadha
- Tea Leaves
- Capsules
- Liquid Extracts
A piece of advice: Never try to eat ginkgo seeds in their raw form, as they might be poisonous, and you do not want to try them for sure.
Precautions While Taking Ginkgo
Anytime before starting with anything new, seeking the guidance of your doctor is the first thing you should do before starting with ginkgo by any means.
1. People Suffering From Allergies
People who are suffering from an allergy to alkyphenols should avoid ginkgo as they might get an allergic reaction by consuming it.
2. People Consuming Certain Medications
People who are suffering from some diseases and are consuming medicines for blood thinning, NSAIDs, and SSRIs must avoid it as it may react negatively with the body.
3. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Ladies
During the sensitive time of pregnancy and breastfeeding, anything new may not be recommended for the new mother, unless their doctors recommend it to them.
4. People Suffering From Chronic Disease
Its golden leaves are full of medicinal benefits, but people suffering from chronic disease should not take it without the advice of their doctors.
Unwanted Symptoms That Might Occur Due To Ginkgo Consumption
Like all medicinal plants, it may not be suitable for all, and some people may complain of a set of issues after taking it in any form. They may not be severe or for a long time, but they might happen to them:
- Headache
- Rashes
- Constipation or Loose motion
- Allergies
- Dizziness
Golden Leaves- A Sovereign of Hope and Resilience
Tradition Reveals Catch the ginkgo leaves while they're flowing down, and you will be blessed with good luck in future.
A plant species that is older than the dinosaur era is how one can define the existence of this plant. Imagine walking on a path full of golden ginkgo leaves after a stormy night, you will feel like walking on gold. A medicinal plant full of so many benefits was naturally born ages ago and is still available for you to enjoy its benefits. What you should never miss is to consult your doctor beforehand while consuming it.
Let us enjoy the leaves of the tree that symbolize hope, strength and resilience. Bring good luck into your life with ease!
frequently asked questions
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By what name is Ginkgo known in India?
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Does the ginkgo possess only medicinal benefits, or does it have other benefits too?
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When should I take ginkgo- in the morning or at night?
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Is it true my skin will glow differently if I take ginkgo?
