Ginkgo Leaf (Ginkgo biloba)

Also known as: Maidenhair Tree • Silver Apricot • Fossil Tree
Family: Ginkgoaceae (not related to ragweed)
Origin: Native to China; cultivated worldwide
Parts used: Leaf
Primary use: Internal

✨ Description

Ancient and enduring, Ginkgo biloba is often called the “living fossil” — the oldest surviving tree species on Earth, with a lineage stretching back over 200 million years.
Its elegant fan-shaped leaves are symbols of resilience, longevity, and mental clarity, carrying both spiritual and medicinal power through the centuries.

Ginkgo’s most celebrated gift is to the mind: it enhances circulation, focus, and memory, especially in the brain and extremities. Its unique compounds — flavone glycosides and terpenoids — act as potent antioxidants, helping to protect cells from aging, stress, and free radical damage.

Ginkgo is both grounding and awakening, bringing the body’s energy into balance and clarity.

🍵 Dried Herb Uses

As a circulatory, brain, and antioxidant tonic:

Memory & Focus: Improves blood flow to the brain, supporting mental clarity and alertness.
Circulation Support: Enhances peripheral blood flow, easing cold hands and feet.
Stress Relief: Protects against oxidative stress and nervous tension.
Vision & Hearing: May support eye and ear health through improved microcirculation.
Energy & Vitality: Encourages overall oxygenation and stamina.

Directions (Internal Use):
Steep 1 teaspoon of Ginkgo Leaf in 8 oz of hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Drink 1–2 cups daily or as part of a circulation or memory blend.
Pairs well with Gotu Kola, Rosemary, or Peppermint for enhanced brain function and alertness.

💧 External Uses

Can be infused into massage oils or balms to encourage circulation and skin rejuvenation.
Used in toners and serums for mature skin to promote elasticity and brightness.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Longevity & Wisdom: Connects with ancient energy, guiding clarity of thought and patience.
Balance & Renewal: Strengthens both hemispheres of the mind for harmony and calm.
Spiritual Protection: Rooted in ancient temples, the Ginkgo tree symbolizes endurance through any storm.

Affirmation:

“I am centered and clear — my mind flows like the wind through ancient leaves.”

🌿 Pairing Suggestions

Gotu Kola or Rosemary – for brain health and focus.
Peppermint or Green Tea – for energy and alertness.
Ginger Root or Cinnamon Bark – for improved circulation and warmth.
Hawthorn Leaf & Berry – for heart and blood vessel support.

🌼 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Ginkgo Leaf is organically harvested in late summer and early autumn, when its bioactive compounds reach their peak.
Leaves are shade-dried and finely cut, preserving their signature fan-like shape and delicate aroma.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

Taste: Mildly bitter, earthy, and slightly nutty.
Energetic profile: Cooling, drying, and stimulating to circulation.
Pairs well with: Gotu Kola, Rosemary, Ginger, and Green Tea.

⚠️ Warnings

May interact with blood-thinning medications (aspirin, warfarin, etc.).
Avoid before surgery or if prone to bleeding disorders.
Use cautiously during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Discontinue use if experiencing dizziness, rash, or digestive upset.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Ginkgo Leaf is a teacher of time — ancient yet alive, steady yet awakening.
It nourishes the mind, moves the blood, and opens the pathways of thought.
To drink Ginkgo is to sip a story that began before humankind — and still whispers clarity to those who listen.