Ginko Biloba
GINKO BILOBA
Ginkgo biloba (a.k.a. the memory tree) is one of the most ancient and resilient plants on Earth. This isn’t just a trendy supplement you take before a test or a meeting. Ginkgo has been around for over 200 million years, meaning it literally stood tall while dinosaurs roamed the planet. It survived ice ages, mass extinctions, and even the atomic bombing of Hiroshima- where some ginkgo trees near the blast site kept growing. That’s not just survival, that’s sacred botanical tenacity.
Ginkgo is native to China, where it has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 1,000 years and is often referred to as bai guo. Though it’s now famous for its leaves, traditional medicine mostly used the seeds, especially for lung and kidney health, and to treat conditions like asthma, incontinence, and cough. But even before its medicinal use, the ginkgo tree held spiritual significance. It was planted in temple gardens, symbolizing longevity, resilience, and hope, and was often cared for by Buddhist monks who passed down its legacy as a tree of wisdom and light.
In the 18th century, ginkgo began to make its way west through botanical gardens in Europe. By the 20th century, scientists had turned their attention to the fan-shaped leaves, which were found to contain flavonoids and terpenoidswith powerful effects on circulation, especially in the brain. The idea that ginkgo could improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity caught fire- especially in Germany and France, where standardized ginkgo extract became part of mainstream herbal medicine.
By the 1990s and early 2000s, Ginkgo biloba leaf extract had become one of the most researched and widely used herbal supplements in the world, especially for age-related cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s support. It also gained popularity among students, creatives, and anyone wanting a little boost in mental sharpness. But ginkgo’s benefits aren’t just for the mind- it also supports vascular health, reduces free radicals, and improves circulation from head to toe.
And while modern science still debates just how powerful ginkgo is in late-stage cognitive conditions, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilating properties are well-documented. Ginkgo protects the microcirculation of the brain, making it a favorite for long-term brain health and recovery after trauma, stroke, or tinnitus.
Whether you're sipping it in tea, taking it in extract, or sitting beneath its golden fan-shaped leaves in the fall, ginkgo reminds us that resilience is rooted in wisdom, and wisdom takes time.
Medicinal Uses of Ginkgo Biloba
Improves Memory and Concentration
Enhances cognitive performance, especially in cases of mental fatigue, brain fog, or age-related decline
Supports Brain Health in Aging
Used in prevention and supportive care for Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
Increases Mental Clarity and Alertness
Promotes clear thinking and focus, often used by students and creatives
Neuroprotective Properties
Antioxidants in ginkgo help protect neurons from oxidative stress and free radical damage
Improves Blood Flow and Microcirculation
Enhances circulation, particularly in extremities (hands, feet) and the brain
Supports Heart and Vascular Function
May help reduce arterial plaque, improve blood vessel elasticity, and support vascular tone
Relieves Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Used to alleviate pain from walking due to poor blood flow (claudication)
Reduces Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Used to manage inner ear circulation, with varying effectiveness depending on cause
Supports Eye Health and Vision
Improves retinal blood flow; sometimes used in managing macular degeneration or glaucoma
Reduces Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Mild adaptogenic effect; supports emotional stability and mental resilience
Helps with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
May support mood balance during low-light seasons when combined with other therapies
Fights Oxidative Stress
Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids that protect cells from damage
Used to support overall longevity and cellular health
Anti-inflammatory Effects
May reduce inflammation in blood vessels, brain tissue, and other systems
Sexual Health and Libido (Traditionally)
May enhance circulation to reproductive organs and sexual performance in men and women
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Used by travelers and climbers to improve oxygenation and blood flow at high elevations
Menstrual Cycle Regulation
Occasionally used in combination with other herbs to ease PMS or menstrual-related mood swings
Common Preparations
Standardized extract (EGb 761): Most commonly studied form for brain and circulatory health
Capsules or tablets: Widely available for daily cognitive support
Tincture or liquid extract: For more rapid absorption and flexible dosing
Tea (less common): Leaves brewed for milder effects (note: lower in active compounds)