Ginkgo biloba is a plant widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat different conditions, such as cerebral circulatory insufficiencies, vascular disorders, difficulties with memory or attention, and even diseases such as dementia.
On this occasion we have proposed to analyze the uses of the infusion of Ginkgo biloba. Read on to discover everything about this drink, its uses and what the different scientific investigations say about it.
The Ginkgo biloba plant
The Ginkgo tree, or Japanese walnut, is also known as the tree of forty shields due to the price paid by a Parisian fan for the purchase of a specimen. In the original language, its name would mean something like silver apricot or white fruit.
It is a singular tree, that is to say that it does not belong to any existing family at present. Hence, it is considered rare and special.
At a botanical level, it is the only living member of the Ginkgophyta family, which also includes the Ginkgoites and Baiera genera, both of which have now disappeared. In fact, these trees are considered living fossils and it is believed that they existed on our planet millions of years ago, and may have coexisted with the extinct dinosaurs.
Ginkgo biloba is a deciduous tree whose height can reach 35 m. It stands out for its steep and straight branches, and a brown color with grayish touches on its bark that also shows marked cracks.
The leaves can reach 15 cm and are light green; and the flowers appear in groups of two or three. After flowering, the seeds appear which, on many occasions, are confused with fruits.
Ginkgo biloba infusion is prepared with the leaves of this tree. It is worth noting that the famous Ginkgo biloba extract is extracted from these, which is considered a psychoanaleptic, that is, a drug against dementia.
Health benefits of Ginkgo biloba tea
By infusing Ginkgo biloba, the components of the leaf of this tree are extracted. Alternative medicine specialists maintain that the extract has protective properties for the heart and brain, as well as acting as an antioxidant. Let’s take a look at its benefits one by one.
Strengthen memory and concentration
It is usually recommended to drink ginkgo biloba infusion to improve memory and the times and range of concentration. A long-term intake of its extract improves some executive processes of the brain as well as long-term memory. However, more studies would be necessary to corroborate its efficacy.
Protect against cognitive decline
Alternative medicine recommends drinking Ginkgo biloba infusion or consuming its extract to protect the brain from deterioration that occurs with advancing age.
However, several clinical trials that have compared the cognitive performance of the patients under study over the years with the performance of the control group that received a placebo have not been able to corroborate this theory.
Improve alertness and senses
Much has been said about the effectiveness of Ginkgo biloba leaves to generate a state of alertness and, in turn, contribute to the improvement of taste, vision, hearing and other senses.
One study found that those who received supplements for 13 weeks improved their alertness and affective status, as well as their sensory performance.
Relieve migraine
Do you usually suffer from a very strong headache? Preparing an infusion of Ginkgo biloba at home can help relieve pain, according to a 2011 scientific study.
Fight phlegm and asthma
It is believed that the components present in ginkgo leaves help fight phlegm, asthma and also allergic attacks.
Anti-inflammatory effect
Another of the most widespread benefits of ginkgo biloba infusion is its anti-inflammatory power. Consuming this drink improves discomfort caused by inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, rheumatism, or even common ailments such as menstrual cramps or soreness caused by exercise.
Fight heaviness in the legs
Ginkgo biloba helps improve circulation. For this reason, it is used to promote circulatory flow, relieving the discomfort caused by heaviness in the legs. On the other hand, this property helps to improve different circulation disorders.
Relieve hemorrhoids
By promoting circulation, regularly drinking this infusion can be perfect for improving all kinds of venous disorders such as hemorrhoids and even varicose veins.
In addition, it is considered a good way to prevent thrombi and, therefore, serious illnesses such as strokes or strokes.
Reduce sensations of dizziness and vertigo
Specialists in alternative medicine recommend drinking Ginkgo biloba infusion to reduce the annoying sensations of vertigo and dizziness. It is worth noting that the consumption of this infusion is not recommended during pregnancy, since by thinning the blood, it could cause an abortion.
How to prepare an infusion of Ginkgo biloba
If you are a regular reader of Infusionismo, you know that infusions of leaves and roots are very easy to make. For this reason, we like them so much: they provide endless benefits and take just a few minutes to prepare!
Ingredients
- 10 g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves.
- 1 cup of water.
Elaboration
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the dried ginkgo biloba leaves and lower the heat.
- Let them decoction for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let stand 5 more minutes.
- Sweeten with honey, if desired, and drink.
As always, we remind you that before starting the usual intake of an infusion, it is advisable to consult your doctor since it could interact with medications if you take them.