Ginkgo Biloba
Pinyin Mandarin Name
Ying Xing or Bai Guo
Common English Name
Ginkgo Nut
Part of Plant Used
Seed
Nature
Neutral
Taste
Sweet, bitter
Meridians Entered
Lungs, Kidneys
Common Usages
Gingko seeds are used to treat chronic coughs, asthma, tuberculosis, bladder infections, frequent urination, and leukorrhea (TCM: deficient Lung Qi; deficient Kidney yin; damp heat).
Traditional Usages and Functions
Consolidates Lung Qi, strengthens Lungs, and relieves wheezing and coughing; expels phlegm; astringes damp heat and stops discharges; stabilizes Lower Burner. 医学全在线www.med126.com
Common Formulas Used In
Gingko seeds are more properly considered a food and are used alone, raw or cooked, as a nutritional supplement. They are also used in capsule form as a supplement to formulas that treat coughing and asthma, such as Ma Huang. Gingko root is most often used to treat chronic cases of involuntary ejaculation. Gingko leaves, in capsule or tablet forms, are renowned for their effectiveness in treating a wide variety of cerebral and circulatory problems, including migraine• headaches, vertigo, memory dysfunction, stroke, coronary thrombosis, and Alzheimer's disease.
Processing Required
-
Remarks
-
Cautions in Use
Do not use where there are excess cold-damp symptoms. The kernels are mildly toxic and should not be taken either in large quantities or over a long period of time. Use cautiously and in small doses with children. (Consultation with a practitioner is recommended.) The root and leaves are not toxic.
