Native to China, the ginko biloba tree has been widely cultivated for medicine and food since ancient times. In fact, some that were planted at temples are believed to be over 1,500 years old and records have other specimens listed at more than 2,500 years old.
The one in Nimri’s herb garden has been there for generations.
Ginkos are either male or female and both genders give noses problems. The males cause allergy issues due to pollen and the females cause noses to cringe because the ripe fruit stinks.
Though some have successfully been made into bonsi, they are large, beautiful trees, normally reaching a height of 66–115 feet, with some of the very old specimens in China being over 160 feet. The tree is usually deep rooted and resistant to wind and snow damage. During autumn, the leaves turn a bright yellow. A combination of resistance to disease and insect-resistant wood makes them long-lived.
The nut-like gametrophytes inside the seeds are particularly esteemed in Asia, and are a traditional Chinese food. Ginkgo nuts are often served at special occasions such as weddings and the Chinese New Year because they are believed to have health benefits. However, when eaten in large quantities or over a long period, especially by children the gametophyte (meat) of the seed can cause poisoning by MPN, which is heat stable and not destroyed by cooking.
Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in the outer fleshy coating and contact can cause dermatitis or blisters, like a poison ivy rash…. Joy, I am so allergic to poison ivy that I can practically break out just seeing a photo of the evil plant!
Fortunately, Nimri, who has an ancient ginkgo tree in her garden is not subject to allergies. Nimri and her herbal garden can be found in Kazza’s Chatterre Trilogy. If you happen to have a Kindle Unlimited account, you can get the box set free.
Many consider Ginkgo Biloba to be a preventative measure toward the onset of Alzheimer’s, but it can also have undesirable effects, especially for individuals with blood circulation disorders and those taking anticoagulants, like aspirin or warfarin, so I would urge you to chat with your doctor before trying this. (If you’re seriously worried about Alzheimer’s, another possibility could be Lion’s Mane – regardless, discuss herbal treatments with your doctor.)
Anyone with a history of strong allergic reactions to poison ivy, mangoes, cashews and other alkylphenol-producing plants are more likely to experience allergic reaction when consuming non-standardized ginkgo-containing preparations, combinations, or extracts, so if you decide to try this, be cautious.