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Creative Nature Review Name Ginkgo Biloba, Maidenhair-Tree Latin Name Ginkgo Biloba Origin The world's oldest living tree species, believed to have survived 200 million years. Ginkgo Biloba trees can be traced to the fossils of the Permian period and for this reason it is often referred to as the "living fossil.'' Ginkgo Biloba trees can live for 1000 years and may grow to a height of 120 feet. Cultivated/Parts Used Leaves and seeds. History of Use Medicinal use of Ginkgo can be traced back almost 5,000 years in Chinese herbal medicine. Ginkgo leaf tea was used to enhance a clear mind and improve the power of concentration. This ancient remedy has been recommended for coughs, asthma and inflammations due to allergies. In the late seventeenth century, Engelbert Kaempfer, a German physician and botanist, became the first European to discover and catalogue the ginkgo tree. In 1784 a ginkgo tree was brought to America and planted, in the garden of William Hamilton, near Philadelphia. The Ginkgo tree is the most resistant of tree species to insects, disease, and pollution, and because of this it is frequently planted along streets in cities. The seeds can be eaten after roasting. Ginkgo was often taken as a 'pick me up' for a bad hangover. Nutritional Breakdown Terpene lactone, Ginkgolides and Bilobalide. Contraindications/Interactions Excess use may cause dermatitis, headaches, diarrhoea and vomiting. There may be an additive effect between Gingko and blood thinning agents. Do not use when pregnant or breastfeeding. Instructions For Use/Dosages Use 1 teaspoon per person / per cup, add boiling water, cover and let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste (the longer the steeping time the stronger the tea). Strain tea before drinking or make in a Cafetiere. Ginkgo tea does not taste amazing on its own; you may want to mix it with another flavoured tea, lemon or honey to make it more palatable. |
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