Ginkgo biloba: where it grows, description, interesting facts, beneficial properties of the plant. Ginkgo biloba or temple tree Ginkgo Biloba

Inside the seeds there is an embryo that begins to develop after the seed falls. The seed coat consists of three layers: inner - thin layer paper-like; the middle layer is hard and has longitudinal ribs; the outer layer is fleshy and yellowish-orange in color.

The powerful Ginkgo biloba often blooms in May. Immediately after pollination and subsequent fertilization, small ovules turn into plum-shaped fruits yellow color.

Such unusual trees can be found in Japan and France, and the species is also cultivated in South Korea.

Composition of ginkgo

Ginkgo leaves contain catechins, wax, starch, lactones, essential and fatty oils, pentosan, terpenes, acids (linolenic, hydroginkgolic, quinic, shikimic), hexacosanol, pinite, sterols, amentoflavone (biflavonoid), flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, ginkgetin, bilobetin), micro and macroelements. The seeds of the plant contain sugar, starch, fatty oil, protein, asparagine, pentosan, arginine, xylan, carotene, flavonoids, and raffinose. The seed shell contains butyric, valeric, propionic and ginkgolic acids, toxic substances.
To date, since therapeutic purpose Only the leaves of the plant are used. They are harvested in the fall during the growing season. Linalool esters and phenylpropane derivatives are found in the leaves, as well as in the seeds and wood. The composition contains special sesquiterpenes and tricyclic diterpenes. Ginkgo biloba roots contain a unique ginkgolide. The content of ginkgolides varies significantly in different preparations.

Useful properties of Ginkgo biloba.

Thanks to exceptional specific substances, the plant tends to dilate blood vessels, easily increasing the elasticity of the vessel walls. In addition, Ginkgo biloba perfectly fights all sorts of different inflammatory processes, since it is possible to inhibit the activation factor. Due to this factor, drugs are indicated for arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, bronchial asthma and atherosclerosis.

An important component is the essential flavin glycosides, which have surprisingly powerful antioxidant properties. The strong therapeutic effect exerted by the plant on the human body includes a significant reduction in cholesterol levels, getting rid of edema, and increasing the strength of the walls blood vessels and normalization of metabolic processes.

It has also been proven to be useful for preventing lipid peroxidation and normalizing blood pressure. It should be mentioned that numerous drugs can have a beneficial effect on human thinking and memory, improving the speed of processes in the brain, due to the full supply of systems and tissues human body necessary oxygen. To restore blood circulation processes, Ginkgo biloba is used very often by many modern doctors.

Uses of Ginkgo biloba

Due to the fact that the antioxidant and angioprotective properties of the plant have been proven, its leaves have become widely used in medicine. Various pharmaceutical drugs are primarily indicated for various manifestations of cerebral atherosclerosis. Ginkgo biloba also has a positive effect on the aging body, including behavioral and psycho-emotional disorders. They are usually accompanied by cerebral vascular insufficiency.

It is worth noting the benefits of the drugs for serious visual and hearing disorders. Regular use of the prescribed drug for a long time helps not only improve memory and excellent concentration, but also eliminates dizziness and headaches. Ginkgo biloba is effective for intellectual activity, venous disease and obliterating arteriosclerosis, as it improves the rheological properties of blood and reduces thrombus formation.

Additional advantages in the treatment of diseases include anti-inflammatory effects and vasoregulatory effects on the human body. Often, drugs are prescribed for dangerous systemic diseases accompanied by serious circulatory disorders. These include, in particular, diabetes mellitus.

The long-petioled leaves of Ginkgo biloba contain large quantities of flavonoids, procyanidins, diterpenoids, as well as bilobalide and ginkgolides. One of the presented alkaloids is a fairly powerful antioxidant that binds all substances that provoke vasoconstriction and the inevitable appearance of blood clots.

Tincture of Ginkgo biloba leaves.

This product is a unique pharmaceutical preparation, which is characterized by many beneficial properties. The range of its therapeutic effects is wide, it is due to its amazing effect on all metabolic processes occurring in the cells of any human body. When using this remedy, you can dilate blood vessels, restore neuron metabolism, significantly reduce cholesterol levels and normalize blood pressure.

This medicine often prescribed for serious illnesses of cardio-vascular system, for the treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency, for multiple sclerosis and intermittent claudication syndrome, as well as for complaints of tinnitus. It is also indicated for diabetes and hemorrhoids. Together with the main therapy, Ginkgo biloba has a positive effect on the treatment of migraines, deafness, bronchial asthma, impotence and toxic shock.

It has been proven that it can prevent the development of extremely dangerous conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Ginkgo biloba tincture can be used by any age group. After just a week of regular use, you will be able to observe positive dynamics. This powerful stimulant of attention, memory and mental potential amazes with its effect on the human body.

To prepare the product at home, you need to take 40 percent alcohol and pour the leaves of the plant at a rate of 1:10. After infusing for two weeks in a very dark place, the Ginkgo biloba tincture should be carefully strained. You can take the medicine 10-15 drops diluted in 100 grams of water. In this case, the course of treatment should not be less than one month. Modern experts advise conducting three full courses per year. This treatment regimen gives positive results that last for a long time.

This tincture can also be used as an excellent external remedy for facial rejuvenation.

Ginkgo biloba extract

Ginkgo biloba tree extract has long been used by ancient Chinese healers. It improves not only memory and thinking, but also has a beneficial effect on a person’s overall well-being. Today, this drug is part of many pharmaceutical products that are used for effective prevention and effective treatment of a wide variety of diseases.

The extract from the presented plant is indispensable for disorders of the blood supply to the brain. The steroids in the extract are directly involved in important cell growth processes, exerting a beneficial effect on the overexpression of the PBR type. The drug is indicated for the destruction of life-threatening cancer cells, and is also used for preventive purposes in the treatment of complex forms of various malignant neoplasms.

Modern doctors have proven the benefits of Ginkgo biloba extract for diseases of the lungs and heart, and for bronchial asthma, due to its unique antispastic properties. It is often prescribed as an anthelmintic and can be used externally. At the most early stages Alzheimer's disease, the drug significantly slows down the decline of all mental abilities. In addition, it has a vasodilating effect, increases vascular elasticity and has an antihypoxic effect.

How to take Ginkgo biloba? For use, it is recommended to dilute the drug in water and strictly follow the prescribed dosage. As a rule, the dose does not exceed 20 drops. The course of treatment is from 30 to 40 days. If necessary, treatment can be repeated after 3-4 months.

Ginkgo biloba seeds

The ellipsoidal seeds are no more than 3 cm long. They have a rather fleshy outer shell. Using seeds, you can easily propagate Ginkgo biloba. Before sowing, they must be thoroughly cleared of the fleshy pericarp, and then sown to a depth of about 5 cm. As a rule, germination time can be about 30 days. Since the plant is considered fast-growing, in the first year of its life all seedlings will grow by 15 cm. They quickly form shoots and produce active shoots, starting from the stump to the very root.

It should be mentioned that seedlings do not tolerate transplantation very well. After this procedure, they will not grow for a very long time.

Ginkgo biloba tea

Delicious Ginkgo biloba tea is renowned for its incomparable medicinal value. It can also be included in special drinks along with honeysuckle. The combination of roots and leaves of the plant significantly enhances the healing effect of tea. After a 30-day course of treatment, you will be able to notice a unique increase in your immunity. In addition to a general improvement in well-being, mental reactions will become sharper and memory will become more flexible.

Ginkgo biloba tea promotes improvement in all organs and systems, it restores blood circulation in all blood vessels, increases flow to the brain, and also protects cells from numerous free radicals. It delays the aging of the body, preventing strokes and heart attacks. Elderly patients experience slow platelet activation.

It is enough to replace your regular morning tea with this amazing drink to replenish your supply. vitality and well-being.

Ginkgo biloba for children

Various drugs based of this plant children under 16 years of age are not prescribed, since there is no reliable information about the safety and effectiveness of the use of these medicines not available.

Ginkgo biloba oil

Incomparable oil based on Ginkgo biloba is considered an incredibly powerful restorative agent. When used externally, it has a beneficial effect on split ends and weakened hair. The oil perfectly strengthens the hair roots, restoring the scalp. By enhancing the functionality of the follicles, your hair will become shiny and thick. This cosmetic product has also long been used in everyday skin care. It can cure eczema, ulcers and other serious skin diseases.

Ginkgo biloba - health benefits

Leading medicinal plant experts call ginkgo biloba the “tree of youth” because its antioxidant properties effectively slow down the aging of the body.

The healing properties of ginkgo biloba can normalize the activity of any tissue or organ by restoring the circulatory system in them.

Ginkgo biloba preparations help with dizziness, ringing in the ears, headaches, and senile memory loss. They prevent the development of Raynaud's, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, reduce depression, eliminate anxiety and other ailments that are associated with mental activity.

Ginkgo biloba is a very strong antioxidant. main reason aging is cellular damage caused by free radicals. They are formed in the body as a result of metabolic processes, as well as from exposure to external reasons(smoking, alcohol, radiation, pollution environment etc.).
According to scientists, free radicals are the cause of more than 60 diseases, including atherosclerosis, arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, etc. Antioxidants help prevent these processes. Ginkgo biloba preparations improve the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels in the brain, help them expand, restore the circulatory system, reduce blood viscosity and dilute blood clots.

Ginkgo biloba - application

Studies have shown that the results from taking ginkgo biloba medications come on the seventh to tenth day of use, and a significant effect is felt with a monthly course.

To get a lasting result, long-term (at least 3 months) treatment is required. Scientists have found that the substances that make up ginkgo do not accumulate in the body and are harmless.

Infusion. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tbsp. a spoonful of crushed dry leaves of ginkgo biloba, boil for 15 minutes in a water bath, leave for 30 minutes. Take 3 times a day, 1/3 cup before meals. The course of treatment is one month, the break is two weeks, after which the course is repeated. It is recommended to carry out 3-4 courses of treatment.

Tincture. Prepared with vodka 1:10. Leave in a cool, dark place for two weeks, shaking occasionally. Don't strain.

You can use ginkgo leaf in powder form by grinding it dry in a coffee grinder. In the morning before meals, 30-40 minutes before eating, you need to chew a coffee spoon of powder without top and wash it down warm water. One dose per day is enough. The course of treatment is a month, after a break of 14 days - repeat. It is recommended to conduct 3 courses per year. With regular use of ginkgo biloba, the beneficial effects remain for a long time.

The use of ginkgo biloba for certain diseases

To improve potency, treat age-related impotence, and help older people overcome emotional stress, take 15 drops of tincture (prepared above) in half a glass of water 2 times a day before meals. The course is six months.

For hypertension, cerebral atherosclerosis, emotional stress, aches and numbness in the limbs caused by poor circulation, and for depression, take a coffee spoon of ginkgo biloba leaf powder (described above).

For older people, to slow down the aging process and strengthen the immune system, take the powder for four to five months? coffee spoon in the morning half an hour before meals, washed down with warm water. Take it for a month, take a break for a month, repeat it.

To reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, if you have allergies, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tbsp. spoon of ginkgo biloba powder, simmer for 5-10 minutes in a water bath, strain. Take 3-4 times a day, 1-2 tbsp. boats half an hour before meals.

To improve brain function, strengthen blood vessels, remove excess water and carbohydrates from the body, prepare a preparation: take 2 handfuls of dried crushed ginkgo biloba leaves. Pour 500 ml of 70% alcohol into a saucepan, put on fire and heat very carefully until steam appears above the liquid.

Pour hot alcohol over crushed ginkgo biloba leaves. Close the drug tightly with a lid and place in a cool, dark place, leave for 8-10 days.

After the time has passed, strain the liquid well and pour into a clean dark glass bottle that closes tightly. Take 1 teaspoon 2 times a day, adding to tea.

By taking ginkgo biloba preparations, you will improve your health and also delay the aging of your body. The results of using the plant will prove the remarkable benefits of ginkgo biloba.

Ginkgo contraindications

Preparations based on ginkgo are contraindicated in case of individual intolerance, tendency to bleeding, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, age under 12 years, cerebrovascular accident, heart attack in the acute period. Long-term use of ginkgo preparations increases the risk of stroke.
Be healthy! But! Before you decide to start treatment with ginkgo biloba, consult your doctor!
Watch the video that talks about medicinal properties ginkgo:

Ginkgo Biloba, Brain Development!

Botanical characteristics

Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgo biloba), translated as Ginkgo biloba, is a relict tree up to forty meters high, which is sometimes called a living fossil. The diameter of its trunk sometimes reaches five meters. At the beginning of its formation, the crown is pyramidal in shape, but over time it begins to grow.

This is a deciduous tree with unusual shape leaves in the form of a fan-shaped bilobed plate, the length of which is no more than five to eight centimeters. The leaves are located on a thin petiole and they develop quite quickly.

This plant is dioecious, with pollen developing on male specimens and two ovules on female specimens. This process first begins to occur at the 25th year of this tree’s life. The seeds resemble apricots, but are quite different unpleasant smell, which is similar to rancid butter.

This unpleasant odor is due to the presence of butyric acid, which is present in this plant. The seed coat consists of three layers: a fleshy yellow-amber outer layer, a hard middle layer, and an inner layer that is quite thin.

This tree has a well-developed root system and is resistant to snow drifts. At the beginning of autumn, the leaves begin to quickly turn yellow and then fall off. Some representatives of ginkgo reach an age of 2500 years.

Spreading

For a long time it was believed that this tree did not occur in the wild, but it is now known that this is not so, and it grows in two eastern regions of China. Currently, Ginkgo biloba is cultivated in many botanical gardens and parklands in subtropical areas North America, as well as Europe.

Part used

Ginkgo biloba leaves are used for medicinal purposes and contain important medicinal substances.

Chemical composition this plant

This plant contains the following substances in its composition: flavone glycosides, among which are kaempferol, quercetin, gingolide; It contains terpenes, for example, ginkgolides, bilobalides.

Besides this there is in this medicinal plant various organic and ginkgolic acids; many amino acids are present; and also there are alkaloids, waxes, steroids, and some essential oils.

Rich in ginkgo biloba and vitamins. Concerning minerals, then among them we can distinguish the following elements: selenium, magnesium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, titanium, calcium, potassium, iron, as well as a number of other, no less important representatives.

Uses of ginkgo biloba

For several millennia, this plant has been used for medicinal purposes, and is considered one of the popular medicinal representatives of the flora throughout the world. Various medicinal remedies are prepared on the basis of ginkgo biloba. It is especially popular in Chinese medicine.

Its widespread use is justified by the healing composition of ginkgo extract, which contains maximum amount diverse active components, among which substances such as terpenoids and flavonoids come first.

As a result of scientific research, it was revealed that this plant contains special substances that block the formation of beta-amyloid proteins, thereby reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Remedies prepared from this plant are used for memory impairment; their use improves thought processes and normalizes the quality of life of patients suffering from severe Alzheimer's disease.

It has been found that the flavonoids present in Ginkgo biloba in a positive way affect the organ of vision, in particular, the function of the retina improves. Ginkgo biloba extract can be used to treat and prevent retinopathy; it helps prevent age-related degenerative processes occurring in the tissues of the eye.

Flavonoids are natural antioxidants; accordingly, they prevent free radicals from destroying body cells. At present, the properties of this extract have not yet been fully studied, but, nevertheless, the results of the studies indicate only the positive effect of ginkgo on the organ of vision.

The use of this plant extract helps to cope with premenstrual syndrome. Due to the fact that the feeling of tension decreases, irritability decreases, swelling and soreness of the mammary glands disappears. Thus, all the symptoms that are characteristic of this condition are relieved.

In addition, ginkgo biloba is used for atherosclerosis, as it helps reduce cholesterol levels; it is also used for varicose veins. The plant extract has a positive effect on blood circulation and also strengthens the walls of blood vessels.

The pharmaceutical industry produces ginkgo biloba extract, which is obtained from the dry leaves of this medicinal plant. If we talk about the composition of this product, it is standard, regardless of the manufacturer, it contains approximately twenty-five percent flavonoids and six percent terpenoids.

Conclusion

Before you start using the extract from this valuable medicinal plant, it is recommended that you consult with a qualified doctor. Since there may be contraindications to its use.

Name: translated from Japanese - “silver apricot”, or “silver fruit”. This is the name of the edible fruits of this wonderful relict plant from Western China. “Living fossil” is what Charles Darwin called ginkgo. Indeed, it is difficult to come up with a more precise definition. Ginkgo is one of the few oldest woody plants that are still preserved on earth.

Ginkgo in autumn
Photo by Andrey Sedov

From the history: Gingko has been known in culture since the 11th century. In China and Japan it was planted near sacred temples. Now in the Land of the Rising Sun, ginkgo is used as fruit trees. By the way, the name of the plant translated from Japanese means “silver apricot”. A magnificent specimen of ginkgo grows in the Tokyo Botanical Garden. In front of him is a marble plaque on which is carved the name of the botanist Hiraze, who devoted most of his life to the study of this plant. There is a tree in Nagasaki that is over 1,200 years old. In China in natural conditions A 45 m high ginkgo was discovered growing. It is believed that it is approaching the 2000-year mark. Legends say that in very ancient times in northern China, ginkgo seeds were accepted as tribute.

European scientists have discovered living tree gingko in 1690 (previously they had only encountered imprints of the plant on stones). Gingkos first appeared in botanical garden Utrecht (Holland), but exact date this event is not installed. In 1754 it came to England. There, a tree has been preserved to this day, with the help of which the peculiarities of ginkgo fertilization were discovered and studied. The British call gingko "the tree of maiden hair." Its leaves remind them of the leaf lobules of one of the most graceful ferns, known as “Venus’s hair” (adiantum). The French dubbed the ginkgo the “forty crown tree.” It received such a strange name in 1780 from the Parisian amateur botanist Petigny. Tom managed to buy a pot of five small ginkgo trees from one of the English gardeners for 25 guineas, i.e. 40 ecus each. These trees became the progenitors of almost all the gingkos now growing in France.

Photo of Natalia Nesterova

The Germans did not remain indifferent to gingko. The great Goethe dedicated a poem to him: This leaf was from the east
I am modestly brought into my garden,
And for the seeing eye
It reveals the secret meaning. The peculiar shape of the gingko leaves seemed to the poet a symbol of friendship.

Prehistoric ginkgo, ancestors modern plants, existed on earth before the Rocky Mountains were formed, but living ginkgo biloba plants came to America only in 1784. The oldest specimen grows there now in Forest Cemetery in Philadelphia. This veteran tree has been taken under protection and is being monitored by specialists.

These days, ginkgo can be found in parks Western Europe and on the streets of cities in North America. In culture it feels quite good, although it has never been found in the wild in these places (except, of course, the Mesozoic era).

Description: This is one of the most primitive gymnosperms of modern flora, in the singular, representing both genus and family.

Ginkgo biloba- G. biloba L.

According to experts, ginkgo is a relic of Japanese-Chinese origin. It is believed that its homeland is the mountain forests of Northeast China. It grows there in a warm and humid climate. Once upon a time there were so many trees that the oldest ones were cut down for firewood. Currently, there is no naturally formed ginkgo grove on Mount Memusha in China. The diameter of the trunks of trees growing there reaches 1.5-2 m.

Deciduous, dioecious tree, reaching 30-45 m in height, with a slender brown-gray trunk. The crown of young plants is broadly pyramidal, with a whorled arrangement of main branches extending from the trunk almost at a right angle; With age, its top becomes dull and its crown expands. As a rule, male plants are slimmer, with a pyramidal crown, while female plants are wider and more rounded. None of the modern gymnosperms have such decorative leaves, like ginkgo. They are fan-shaped, often dissected into two deep lobes (this is reflected in the specific name), leathery, glabrous, slightly corrugated along the edge, bluish-green, on long petioles. The leaves are arranged singly or in bunches on short shoots. In autumn they turn beautiful golden-yellow tones, giving the tree an unforgettable appearance. Flowers in small green-yellow inflorescences. The seed is covered with a fleshy covering (like a plum), has a burning-astringent taste and an unpleasant odor.

Decorative with a light trunk, an original whorled crown, with bluish green amazing leaves, very beautiful in autumn colors. In areas favorable for its development, it can be used to create unique decorative groups against the background of coniferous and evergreen trees, in alley and row plantings, and alone on lawns. In culture since 1727.

In GBS since 1946, 4 samples (12 copies) were obtained from 3-year-old seedlings from Potsdam (Germany), seeds from Pyatigorsk, Sukhumi, Korea. Tree, at 30 years old, height 4.15 m, trunk diameter 4.0-9.0 cm. Vegetation from 20.IV ± 6 to 15.X ± 5, 179 ± 5 days. It grows slowly, annual growth is 1-2 cm, rarely 4 cm. Winter hardiness without shelter is low, with shelter is average. Low winter hardy. In Moscow it winters at a young age only with shelter. 36% of summer cuttings rooted without treatment, with treatment with a 0.01% IBA solution for 16 hours - up to 100%. Absent from the landscaping of Moscow. In green construction, it is highly valued for its original shape, beautiful crown, and has technical and nutritional value. Can be grown in areas with warm and humid climates.

The test in the botanical garden of St. Petersburg began at the end of the 19th century. and continued in the middle of the 20th century. (1891-1898, 1940-1941, 1947-2005). In 1940 in open ground A plant was planted from a greenhouse and immediately fell under an abnormally harsh winter. In 1947, seeds were received from Tbilisi and, after germination, they were planted in a nursery (now field 133), where 2 specimens have survived to this day. In 1960, one specimen from I.V. Grushvitsky from the greenhouse was planted in the park at the site. 103 near the Palm Conservatory, where it still grows. Thus, ginkgo has been available in the open ground of the Garden for 57 years.

It has a number of decorative forms: pyramidal(f. fastigiata) - with a columnar or pyramidal crown; crying(f. pendula) - with a weeping crown shape; golden(f. aurea) - with light golden color of leaves; motley(f. variegata) - leaves with golden stripes.

"Laciniata". The tree is fast growing, pin-shaped. The leaves are very large, 20-30 cm wide with numerous notches; the veins are raised, the edge is curly and cut (- C. biloba macrophylla, Salisburia adiantifolia, Macrophilla laciniata). Originated before 1850 as a seedling at Rainier, Avignon, France.

"St. Cloud". A tree with a straight trunk, lateral branches rarely spaced from each other, very long, densely covered with small shortened shoots along the entire length. Albert Kahn Garden, Cloux-sur-Seine near Paris.

"Tremonia". The shape is straight, columnar, 12 m high and 80 cm wide. Beautiful autumn color. In 1970 it went on sale from the Dortmund Botanical Garden. The original tree, circa 1930, emerged from a seedling.

Photo on the left of Svetlana Popova
Photo on the right of Andrey Sedov

Location: photophilous, wind-resistant, quite frost-resistant (tolerates temperatures down to -30°C). Young plants should be protected from the burning rays of the sun, shading them with shields or light fabric. It is better to plant adult plants in well-lit places. The plant is successfully cultivated in temperate zone- where the climate is quite mild. Ginkgo grows in open ground in Kaliningrad (regional), Moscow, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar, and Astrakhan. It is found in the Baltic states, Moldova, and botanical gardens of Central Asia. The plant can be found in the parks of Crimea (in Yalta since 1818), the Caucasus, Ukraine (in Krasnokutsky Park since 1911). It was also tested in Belarus.

Ginkgo has been growing in the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences since 1946. Three-year-old seedlings were brought from Germany. At 30 years old, the plants had a height of slightly more than 4 m. The trunk diameter at the root collar was 9 cm, at a height of 1.3 m - 4 cm. Gingko does not bloom, grows slowly: annual growth is 2 cm, in some years - up to 4 cm. In winter, the plant requires mandatory shelter.

The soil: undemanding. For successful growth of ginkgo, constantly moist soil is necessary, but its mechanical composition is not so important.

Photo of Sergey Ivanov

Reproduction: no tree reproduces like the ginkgo. The method of reproduction brings it closer to ferns and other spore-bearing plants, in which fertilization is carried out with the help of floating male reproductive cells. In all other trees, male reproductive cells cannot move independently. In this regard, ginkgo is an interesting object for studying plant evolution. Freshly harvested ginkgo seeds have high germination capacity, but it is quickly lost due to the fact that their endosperm contains fatty acid. The weight of a thousand pieces of seeds is 200 g. After cleaning the seed from the fleshy covering, only 25% of the original weight remains. On linear meter 10-15 g of seeds are sown, their planting depth is 3-5 cm. Seeds are cleaned in salt water. It is better to sow immediately after processing. Seeds obtained from Tashkent and stratified at 5 - 7 °C for 1.5 months sprouted vigorously 25 days after sowing. Soil germination rate 91%.

Ginkgo is a fast growing tree species, has a strong shoot-forming ability, produces shoots from the stump and root. The tree does not tolerate transplantation well, and does not grow for 2-3 years after that. Landscapers like ginkgo, but females are not suitable for decorative purposes, because during ripening the fruits smell unpleasant, and when they fall, they interfere with pedestrians and transport. Usually males are used. In nurseries, a male bud is grafted onto a young seedling. In the first year, seedlings are 12-15 cm high. Ginkgo is easily propagated by seeds, stem and root cuttings.

Cuttings should be taken at the end of June - beginning of July, and preference should be given not to long shoots (by that time still poorly lignified), but to short shoots, which are cut into cuttings with a “heel” or with part of last year’s wood. Half of the leaves are removed from them and placed in a solution of root formation stimulants for several hours. Then they are planted in a ground film greenhouse, where coarse sand mixed with high-moor peat, perlite or similar loose, breathable materials are used as a substrate. The cuttings are regularly sprayed, adding Epin solution to the sprayer once a week. If the outcome is successful, by autumn the plants will produce, if not roots, then at least callus. For the winter, the cuttings are covered with spruce branches. In the spring, they begin to grow quite quickly, and they need to be planted before this moment - in April. Cuttings with only callus also develop successfully - almost all of them produce roots in the second year. But plants from cuttings develop much more slowly than seeds, at least in the first 1-3 years.

Materials from the article “Living Fossil” by M. Alexandrova were used // “In the World of Plants” No. 1, 2000

Ginko biloba is one of the unique plants on our planet. This ancient tree species has survived on Earth for millions of years since the Ice Age. In their natural habitat in Eastern China, trees grow to very large sizes(height up to 45 m, trunk diameter up to 4 m), and their life period is about 2 thousand years. Currently, due to its resistance to various weather conditions and undemanding soil, Ginkgo biloba can be found in European countries and East Asia, in Russia, America, the Caucasus.

The plant is dioecious: males produce pollen and females produce ovules. Of particular value are the fan-shaped leaves of trees. They have unique healing properties and are widely used in both folk and traditional medicine.

Medicinal properties

Ginko biloba is known as a plant that prolongs youth. Its medicinal properties slow down the aging process of the body. Preparations based on it improve the condition of blood vessels, the rheological properties of blood, increase skin elasticity, stimulate blood circulation and brain activity.

More than four dozen biologically active compounds have been found in the leaves of the tree, which have a complex therapeutic effect on the human body. These include:

  • triterpene lactones (gingolides and bilobalides);
  • flavonoid glycosides (kaempferol, quercetin);
  • organic acids;
  • vitamins;
  • essential oils;
  • steroids;
  • alkaloids;
  • minerals (Se, Mn, Ti, Cu, P, Ca, Mg, Fe).

Important: Some biologically active substances in Ginkgo biloba (gingcolides and bilobalides) are found only in this plant species.

The medicinal effect of the plant has a positive effect on the functioning of the brain, cardiovascular and nervous system, respiratory organs. It is as follows:

  • reducing blood viscosity, enriching it with oxygen;
  • prevention of thrombosis;
  • increasing the elasticity of blood vessels and reducing the permeability of their walls;
  • relieving spasms and dilating blood vessels, improving blood microcirculation, especially in the brain;
  • increasing the supply of oxygen to organs and limbs;
  • slowing down the aging process due to pronounced antioxidant activity;
  • strengthening immunity;
  • diuretic and anti-edematous effect;
  • normalization of metabolic processes;
  • lowering blood cholesterol levels;
  • increasing mental abilities, concentration and memory;
  • improving the transmission of nerve impulses.

Ginko biloba helps with hearing and vision impairment, eliminates headaches, dizziness, and reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks. The plant is very effective for migraines, in complex therapy diabetes mellitus for the prevention and treatment of vascular complications (retinopathy, neuropathy, angiopathy). Ginkgo biloba is also used for polycystic ovary syndrome of central origin, caused by a violation of the regulation of hormone production in the brain, and for disorders menstrual cycle. Remedies from the leaves of the tree, by improving blood circulation in the pelvic organs, are effective for hemorrhoids and impaired potency in men. In China, this plant is considered one of the effective ways treatment of bronchial asthma.

Ginko biloba is included in many cosmetics, slowing down skin aging and promoting its renewal. Used to combat cellulite.

Methods of using Ginko biloba for medicinal purposes

Medicinal raw materials for preparation folk recipes Ginkgo biloba is based on the leaves of the plant. They are collected after full ripening, when they acquire a rich green color, then dried and used for its intended purpose. If you do not have the opportunity or skills to independently collect raw materials, it can be purchased in stores that sell medicinal herbs. An infusion or tincture of the leaves is used as a folk remedy.

Important: It is recommended to collect Ginkgo biloba leaves for therapeutic purposes in places where they grow in large numbers.

Pharmacies have big choice ready-made preparations in various dosage forms based on an extract from the leaves of the plant. These include Ginkgo Biloba, Bilobil, Tanakan, Memoplant, Ginkum, Ginos, etc. The treatment regimen is selected by the doctor individually.

Leaf tincture

A tincture of Ginko biloba leaves is prepared in alcohol or vodka according to the following recipe:

  1. The leaves of the plant are crushed.
  2. The resulting raw material is transferred into a hermetically sealed container and filled with vodka or alcohol at the rate of 10 g of leaves per 100 ml of liquid.
  3. Place the container in a dark and cool place for 14 days, shaking daily.
  4. After the infusion period has expired, the mixture is filtered and poured into a dark glass container for storage.
How to properly store tincture of Ginkgo biloba leaves and how to take it? The resulting product must be stored in the refrigerator. The dosage per dose is 20 drops. Take the tincture three times a day before meals. Can be diluted before use required amount tinctures in half a glass of water. The course of admission is 1 – 3 months. It is recommended to repeat the treatment three times a year.

Infusion of leaves

To prepare the infusion, you can use dry or fresh leaves of Ginko biloba. They are first crushed in a mortar or with a knife. One tablespoon of plant material is poured into a thermos, and then 300 ml of boiling water is added to it and closed tightly. Leave for two hours, filter through gauze and drink 100 ml half an hour before each meal. The course of treatment is continued for 1 - 2 months, after its completion it is necessary to take a break. A noticeable effect appears after the first month of taking the product.

Tip: To prevent diseases of the cardiovascular system, it is useful to consume a mixture of crushed fresh leaves of Ginkgo biloba and honey in a ratio of 1 to 10.

Use of Ginko biloba in children

Ginkgo biloba products are usually not prescribed to children under 16 years of age due to the lack of sufficient information about their safety.

The exception is young patients suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder caused by immature brain. There is experience in using the medicinal properties of this ancient tree in such children, which shows good results. It has been established that the use of products based on this plant in combination with magnesium preparations can accelerate the development of the brain and improve its functions by increasing the supply of oxygen and normalizing blood circulation. After three months of continuous treatment, children showed improvement social behavior and the ability to concentrate.

Contraindications

Folk remedies based on Ginkgo biloba have contraindications for use. These include:

  • disorders of the blood clotting process;
  • pregnancy and lactation;
  • period before surgery;
  • individual intolerance;
  • epilepsy;
  • acute heart attack.

Also, people taking anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents should not take ginko biloba, as the risk of bleeding increases.

Products based on the leaves of this plant are usually well tolerated, however, in some cases, disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract and allergic reactions are noted.

Important: Before using Ginkgo biloba for both therapeutic and preventive purposes, you should consult a doctor.

Video about the beneficial properties of the plant:

All materials on the Priroda-Znaet.ru website are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any product, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!

Growing a ginkgo biloba plant at home will not be difficult, as it is considered to be quite easy to care for. The value of this tree lies not only in its decorative qualities, but also in his medicinal properties and the possibility of using ginkgo in medical practice.

What a tree looks like: its properties

This gymnosperm dioecious plant is rightfully considered ancient, as it appeared 200 million years ago. Translated from Japanese language The name of this plant means "silver apricot". The tree reaches about 40 meters in height, has a light trunk and an original crown (due to bluish foliage). IN wildlife most often found in eastern China.

The leaves of the “silver apricot” are fan-shaped with two deep lobes. The color of the leaves is bluish-green, they are attached to long petioles. In autumn the leaves turn a beautiful golden yellow.

The female plant produces flowers with greenish-yellow inflorescences, and flowering and seed appearance begins in May or June only at 25-30 years of age. Due to its unpretentiousness, ginkgo biloba is often used for landscaping. land plots, parks or gardens. Usually, male trees are taken for this purpose, because female specimens drop fruits, which emit an extremely unpleasant aroma during decay.

The tree contains more than 40 useful biologically active substances:

  • Amino acids;
  • Microelements;
  • Vitamins;
  • Essential oils;
  • Organic acids.

Ginkgo biloba has the following effects:

  • Anti-inflammatory;
  • Antioxidant;
  • Diuretic;
  • Decongestant.

Therefore, it is often used in folk medicine or added to dietary supplements, as well as to many medications.

There are several dozen forms of this tree. In order to grow a plant yourself at home, you need to know what kind of soil and temperature Ginkgo biloba likes, and how to properly care for this tree.

“Silver apricot” is propagated by seeds, root cuttings or stem cuttings. It is recommended to cut cuttings at the end of June from short and young shoots that have not yet become woody.

The young shoot must be half-cleaned of leaves and then treated with root formation stimulants. This could be Kornevin, heteroauxin or any other remedy.

Rooting of cuttings is carried out in a greenhouse with soil made from a mixture of peat and coarse sand. The top of the greenhouse is covered with film, and in the fall the cuttings will be able to take root. Throughout this time, they must be regularly sprayed with water to maintain moisture. Growing a tree from cuttings will take a little longer than from seeds.

Ginkgo biloba can be grown from seeds or small green cuttings. The seeds of the tree look like small nuts with a thin white shell. They are able to maintain their viability for up to one year, provided that they do not dry out during this time. It is advisable to take seeds only with the most best characteristics who grew up in the harsh northern region.

Seeds are planted in the spring at the beginning of March or April in a special box with prepared wet sand. This process is called stratification. Before planting the seeds, they should be periodically washed under water for one week. running water. Sow the seeds to a depth of approximately 7 cm, after which the box should be covered protective film to maintain temperature and humidity, then it needs to be placed in a dark place.

If there are fruits that this plant produces, you can plant fresh seeds, having first cleared them of the pericarp. After a month, the first shoots will appear, and when the sprouts reach a height of 7 cm, they must be transplanted to a permanent place.

After spring frosts seedlings can be safely planted in open ground. If you plant it in a place where direct sunlight falls, the leaves may fade, so it is recommended to create light shading. Replanting should be done no earlier than the tree reaches three years of age. The distance between plants should be approximately 15 or 18 cm.

Ginkgo biloba is not demanding on soil; it grows well in any nutritious soil. Therefore it will do garden soil or you can take a mixture of peat, leaf humus, sand and moss.

  1. It is not difficult to germinate plant seedlings and care for them; you just need to periodically weed the soil and do regular watering. In summer, the tree especially needs additional moisture, and therefore watering will have to be done more often.
  2. A young plant does not need fertilizing, so it is recommended to fertilize it with special fertilizers some time after replanting it. It is enough to fertilize the soil once a month. It could be garden compost, superphosphate fertilizer or other product.
  3. On winter time Ginkgo biloba can be dug up and placed in a box with sand in a dark place (basement). If you leave the plant outside in winter, the soil must be mulched. To do this, take pine sawdust and fill the tree with it. full height. It is necessary to remove the mulch layer only after all the snow cover has melted in the spring. In general, the plant is very difficult to tolerate transplantation, so it is not recommended to do it without a serious reason. On next year There is no need to provide special shelter for the winter. Rooting occurs within two years and during this time there is no need to expect growth.

Pests and diseases

The greatest damage to a tree is caused by rodents, namely mice, which love to eat its bark. In this case it may help special remedy, which is sold in flower shops.

This tree is not afraid of insect pests and has good frost resistance, and it cannot be harmed by strong air pollution or smoke. But a cold and damp summer can harm the plant, when the shoots do not have the opportunity to ripen.

Growing in an apartment

Growing ginkgo in an apartment is also not particularly difficult, even for novice gardeners. It is recommended to place the pot with the plant on the shaded side, protected from drafts and direct action sun rays. If you place a tree on the south side, it will not grow well, and the leaves may get burned. In winter, it is necessary to properly maintain the tree and provide it with additional care.

The air temperature in winter should be within 18 degrees. In case of non-compliance temperature regime during this period it gets lost life cycle, and the tree may die. Watering the plant must be limited several times during this period, but the soil should not be too dry.

“Silver apricot” is also propagated in apartment conditions by seeds and cuttings. Cuttings from the main shoot most often produce straight and beautiful trees, while cuttings from side shoots are distinguished by their slowness and stunted growth.

After germination, the seedlings are planted in permanent pots or tubs and displayed on the veranda, balcony or garden. For soil, the plant will need a solid substrate made from humus and vermiculite, taken in equal amount. In one season, the tree grows approximately 15 cm.

In summer, ginkgo biloba needs more frequent watering and fertilizing with fertilizers for indoor flowers. Air temperature in summer period should stay within 22 degrees. Formative pruning is recommended to be carried out during the active growing season.

After the tree begins to shed leaves, they can be collected in order to prepare a valuable medicine. You should first consult with your doctor to rule out contraindications to taking this medication.

Contains “silver apricot” bilobalides and ginkgolides, which can no longer be found in any other plants. After using medications or homeopathic remedies, it can significantly increase the elasticity and strength of the walls of blood vessels, reduce cholesterol levels and normalize blood pressure. Also leaf extract medicinal tree helps improve quick thinking, memory and prevent the formation of clots and blood clots in blood vessels.