Botanical Overview
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a flowering plant in the Ginkgoaceae family. The traditional uses of this species reflect its genuine medicinal value, validated by generations of practical experience. This species belongs to the Ginkgoaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is the last living species in the order Ginkgoales, which first appeared over 290 million years ago. Fossils similar to the living species, belonging to the genus Ginkgo, extend back to the Middle Jurassic epoch about 170 million years ago. The tree was cultivated early in human history, remains commonly planted, and is widely regarded as a living fossil. G. biloba is a long-lived, disease-resistant, dioecious tree with unique fan-shaped leaves, capable of clonal reproduction, and known for its striking yellow autumn foliage and resilience in disturbed environments. It was known historically as “silver fruit” or “white fruit” in Chinese and called “ginkgo” due to a centuries-old transcription error. It is closely related to cycads and characterized by unique seeds that resemble apricots but are not true fruits. G. biloba, once widespread but thought extinct in the wild for centuries, is now commonly cultivated in East Asia, with some genetically diverse populations possibly representing rare wild survivors in southwestern China’s mountainous regions. Some G. biloba trees have survived extreme events like the Hiroshima atomic bomb. Others show extreme longevity; G. biloba specimens have been measured in excess of 1,600 years, and the largest living trees are estimated to exceed 3,500 years. Today, it is widely planted in cities worldwide for its pollution tolerance and ornamental value. G. biloba wood is valued for its durability and used in crafts and sake-making, while its seeds are popular in Asian cuisine despite health risks, including potential carcinogenicity, allergic reactions, poisoning due to ginkgotoxin, drug interactions, and adverse effects such as bleeding and neurological symptoms, especially with excessive or improper use. Ginkgo-based products are widely marketed for cognitive benefits, although clinical research shows limited medical effectiveness except possibly for dementia, with approval in the European Union but not by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
Traditional Uses
Ginkgo has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Vermifuge
- Dyspepsia
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Expectorant
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Cough
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Wound
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Phenolic: antioxidant compounds that neutralize free radicals
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities