Ancient Allies | The Medicine of Ginkgo

Mind

You’ll hear time and again about the mind medicine that ginkgo offers. Increasing blood flow, regulating the nervous system, and enhancing cognition this ally is provides unparalleled brain support. Bitter and astringent in energy this ally is also nourishing to the lungs and kidneys. We see time and again the connection between the mind and the air element. Both the leaves and nuts are medicinal. However, the female nut bearing tress aren’t allowed to be grown in commercial propagation, largely because they are messy and kind of smelly (but also extraordinarily expansive and awe-inspiring). So instead, the leaves more commonly used and gathered in any stage of leafing. I prefer the fresh green leaves for tincturing, with recommended doses of 20-60 drops 1-4 times daily. This ally is excellent for those who need support with focus, memory, clarity, and peripheral vascular support.

Ginkgo reminds me of ancient, sacred wisdom both within and all around us. It’s spirit is rooted in some of Asia’s deep history, dating back at least 200 million years–nurturing uncompromising strength. As medicine, Ginkgo improves blood flow to the brain, enhances memory and connects us with past and present versions of self. It functions as an antioxidant to protect brain cells from damage, while also supporting the nervous and cardiovascular systems. It’s leaves, with slightly cooling energetics, both sweet and bitter, also have anti-inflammatory action and work as a circulatory stimulant. It’s seeds are antifungal, anti-bacterial and can be prepared as a decoction, adding an infusion of coltsfoot & mullein to treat asthma and persistent cough. Ginkgo helps us ground into our work and play, preserving life force and focus. -Tasha

Body

Ginkgo has been touted for its mind and memory enhancing actions. It has also been useful in reducing anxiety, tension, lung congestion & asthma, migraines, and other chronic conditions that are caused by altered circulation. Due to its effects on neurotransmitters there is also a mood stabilizing and nervous system regulating impact. Full of antioxidants, glycosides, and quercitin ginkgo provides systemic support for the whole being, especially when used for at least 3 months. Though rare, some can experience GI upset if using too high a does, and those with bleeding disorders should use caution given activity on platelets.

Ginkgo, a beautiful and gentle tree with it’s gorgeous, delicate fan-like leaves has been regarded as a wonderful remedy to help clarify and calm the mind, while also stimulating and enlightening to help augment focus and memory. Ginkgo works by increasing the peripheral blood flow allowing more blood to flow to the brain and limbs. Ginkgo can be used as a nootropic to boost cognitive function or to help alleviate migraines. - Cody

Ginkgo! A sweet and magical plant. As you can see by its structure, ginkgo has a very expansive energy. Ginkgo helps us to awaken by increasing blood flow to all the peripheral parts of the body, and specifically has been touted for increasing blood flow to the brain and helping to improve memory. A very healing and helpful ally, bringing renewal, clarity, and bright expansion throughout our being. - Amy

Did you know Ginkgo trees can live 1000 years?! Researching for this month’s Plant Spirit Medicine box I learned that is helpful for tinnitus, vertigo, anxiety, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the body. A potent antioxidant, ginkgo has also been an ally for memory and may help slow dementia and Alzheimer’s progression. - Lilli

Spirit

Regularly found near temples, ginkgo is a sacred tree across many parts of Asia. A delicacy, the nuts have been a source of food for centuries. Over 160 million years old this species once grew across the world. Demonstrating the power of life-force and has affinities with the moon and Pluto. With a long maturation time, this tree is called “grandfather-grandchild” tree. As our tree loving Brett will tell you, we don’t plant trees for ourselves, but for our next generation. Many present day ginkgo trees are estimated to be over a thousand years old making it a symbol of peace, hope, and vitality.

Ginkgo biloba is a very very old species. The order to which it belongs dates back to the Triassic period. This is the last remaining species of the order Gingoales which first appeared 270 million years ago.The only place the tree is found is in the wild in China but it is cultivated all over the world, including my backyard. The lesson and medicine of this marvelous plant is “remember”. Remember where you've come from, remember what you’ve been taught, and continue to move forward with resilience. - Bethany