Botanical Overview
Ginkgo biloba is the sole species of the ancient Ginkgoaceae family, commonly known as Ginkgo or Maidenhair tree. It is native to East Asia, particularly China, and is widely cultivated worldwide. The primary medicinal parts used are the leaves and seeds.
Common names include Ginkgo and Maidenhair tree.
Energetics
Ginkgo biloba has a neutral temperature and moisture quality. Its taste is characterized as bitter and astringent. The herb’s directionality is ascending, and it is tonifying in nature. It primarily affects the qi in traditional energetic frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Cognitive enhancer
- Antioxidant
- Vasodilator
- Neuroprotective
- Circulatory stimulant
Indications
Western
- Cognitive decline
- Memory impairment
- Intermittent claudication
- Tinnitus
- Vertigo
Syndromes
- Cerebral insufficiency
- Peripheral arterial disease
TCM
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Tinnitus
- Poor memory
Syndromes
- Kidney and Liver deficiency
- Wind-phlegm obstruction
Ayurveda
Not traditionally used; indications not established.
Unani
Not traditionally used; indications not established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include flavonoids, terpenoids such as ginkgolides and bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol. These contribute to antioxidant, neuroprotective, and vasodilatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Standardized leaf extract 120-240 mg daily in divided doses
- Tincture 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-4 mL 1-2 times per day
- Infusion of dried leaf 1.5-3 g, 2-3 times per day
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated; may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic skin reactions. Caution advised with anticoagulants due to increased bleeding risk. Use cautiously in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Avoid seeds due to toxicity risk if consumed improperly. Contraindicated in bleeding disorders and concurrent anticoagulant therapy.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers identified in authoritative herbal esoteric sources.
Selected References
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 2
- European Medicines Agency – HMPC Assessment Report on Ginkgo biloba
- Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Ginkgo biloba leaves extract