Good day! Today we have a TREE that is known to improve brain function: Ginkgo Biloba, often referred to as just Ginkgo.
The common name Ginkgo Biloba is actually the Latin name of this tree, so it goes by the Latin name. A fascinating thing about ginkgo is that it's one of the oldest tree species on earth dating back to the dinosaurs(!)
This plant is especially useful for people who have age-related cognitive decline. It can improve memory and mental clarity when taken regularly. It also helps with concentration and focus, and is thought to help with dementia and alzheimer's. Ginkgo is an antioxidant, which means it can prevent and delay cell damage in your body. It's also a vasodilator, which means it opens up circulation in your body, increases blood flow, and lowers blood pressure.
You can find ginkgo biloba in stores in capsule form and tea form, or you can also make it into a tea yourself if you've got access to ginkgo leaves! If you're making tea yourself, use YELLOW ginkgo leaves. When the leaves turn yellow, they have a higher concentration of the medicinal properties of the plant. You can still make tea when the leaves are green, you just won't be getting the highest amount of medicinal benefits.
Have a magical day,
Jenny
PLANT INGESTION WARNING!
As with all herbs and plants you plan to ingest, never ingest them before doing your own research and/or talking with your doctor - it’s possible that medications you take or health conditions you have could have a negative effect if paired with ginkgo biloba. Better safe than sorry!
Photo credit goes to Cayambe