Ginkgo biloba is native to China but it grows all over the world. It’s the only surviving member of an ancient order of plants, hence, it’s sometimes referred to as a living fossil.
The Chinese have been using ginkgo as medicine and food for centuries. Ginkgo leaves and nuts are used as herbal supplements for memory support or brain health.
It’s important to note that raw or roasted ginkgo seeds can be poisonous. Do not consumed ginkgo without proper preparation. It’s best to boil ginkgo mutiple times to remove the bitterness.
Health benefits of ginkgo.
- Contains Powerful Antioxidants
- Help Fight Inflammation
- Improves Circulation and Heart Health
- Reduces Symptoms of Psychiatric Disorders and Dementia
- Improves Brain Function
- Support Vision and Eye Health.
Ginkgo contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects. As you get older, your body doesn’t do as good of a job getting rid of free radicals. Those free radicals attack your brain cells, which can lead to memory loss. A research study found people who took ginkgo extract had fewer signs of dementia than those who didn’t.
Research shows that ginkgo extract can reduce inflammation. Ginkgo extract has shown to reduce inflammation in:
- Arthritis
- Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Stroke
One study in people with heart disease who supplemented with ginkgo revealed an immediate increase in blood flow to multiple parts of the body. This was attributed to a 12% increase in levels of circulating nitric oxide, a compound responsible for dilating blood vessels.
Ginkgo is not only used as supplements but is also transformed into many delicious and healthy dishes. Here are a few recipes to make some delicious and nutritious dishes that can help to restore and strengthen brain health.
Often used on hot summer days, the mild sweetness and cool nature of bird’s nest and ginkgo help clear the heat and detoxify. In addition, it can stimulate digestion, restore and strengthen physical strength without causing fullness and bloating.
Ingredients:
- 1 dried bird’s nest.
- 2-3 teaspoons depending on the taste of each person.
- 5-7 ginkgo seeds.
- 1 fresh ginger branch.
► Step 1: Soak bird’s nest in cold water for 20-30 minutes until the nest is fully expanded, rinse 3x and allow to dry.
► Step 2: Peel off the outer brown skin of ginkgo, wash and separate the heart to remove the bitterness or you can boil the seeds a few times.
► Step 3: Wash ginger and cut into thin slices.
► Step 4: Put the cleaned ginkgo with water in a pot and bring to a boil. When the water has boiled, turn down the heat, wait about 10-15 minutes until the seeds are soft, then add rock sugar and cook for another 5-7 minutes and then turn off the heat.
► Step 5: Combine the ginkgo concoction, bird’s nest, 2-3 thin slices of ginger into a bowl and steam for about 15 minutes. Voila! Your awesome dessert is ready!
Ginkgo bird’s nest dessert can be eaten hot or cold. However, it’s better when served hot. While not necessary, you can improve this recipe by adding lotus seeds, longan, jujube to add flavors and nutrition to the dish.
Warning: Ginkgotoxin is found in ginkgo seeds and, to a lesser extent, ginkgo leaves. Large amounts of ginkgotoxin can cause seizures. In addition, don’t take ginkgo if you are pregnant or have a bleeding disorder. Also, stop taking ginkgo at least two weeks before surgery. It might increase your risk of bleeding. Furthermore, closely monitor your blood sugar levels if you take ginkgo as it might interfere with the management of diabetes.
Warning: Ginkgo may interact with certain medications and/or trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Additional studies should evaluate whether these fruits are safe during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article is for educational purposes only. Before using or ingesting ANY herbs, plants, or foods for medicinal purposes or otherwise, please consult a physician, medical herbalist or other suitable professional for advice.