GINKGO

GINKGO

Part used- leaves

Interesting facts-

One of the oldest living tree species. It is found in fossils dating back 270 million years in the Permian period, so in the era of the dinosaurs (Jurassic 213 million years ago) it already existed.

The Ginkgo tree grows up to about 40 metres.

Native to China

The name Ginkgo means silver apricot

Healing properties have been recorded as far back as 2800 b.c in the oldest Chinese Materia Medica.

The Ginkgo tree has been planted since ancient times in Chinese and Japanese temple gardens

It was the sole survivor of the atomic bomb blast in Hiroshima, Japan during the US bombings in 1945. There were four trees that were charred, but survived. they are still said to be alive and flourishing.

In 1923, during the great fire after the earthquake in Tokyo, ginkgo trees were the ones which survived when other trees were burned to the root.

There are no natural diseases that infect the tree and the tree does not seem to have problems with insects either. This may be one of the reasons of its longevity.

Historical uses

The enhancement of memory.

Increasing circulation to the brain and extremities.

Assist with cognitive function, for adults of all ages

Antioxidant- contains a group of bioflavonoids that are responsible for its antioxidant properties.

Anti- inflammatory properties

Liver protective properties.

Stroke recovery

Alzheimer’s and dementia (prevention and treatment)

Reducing migraine attack frequency

Improves mood

Increasing energy

Eye health

Asthma and lung health

References

https://kwanten.home.xs4all.nl/history.htm

https://opencommons.uconn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.co.nz/&httpsredir=1&article=1019&context=som_articles

http://gardenerdy.com/ginkgo-tree-facts