Gingko

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Gingko

Gingko (pronounced: /ˈɡɪŋkoʊ/), also known as Ginkgo biloba, is a species of tree that is native to China. The tree is commonly referred to as the maidenhair tree and is the only living species in the division Ginkgophyta, all others being extinct.

Etymology

The name "Gingko" is derived from the Chinese word 'ginkgo', which means "silver apricot". The species name 'biloba' comes from the Latin words 'bis' meaning 'two' and 'loba' meaning 'lobed', referring to the shape of the leaves.

Description

Gingko trees are large, capable of reaching heights of up to 35 meters. They are characterized by their fan-shaped leaves, which turn a bright yellow color in the fall. The tree is also known for its longevity, with some specimens reportedly over 1,000 years old.

Medical Uses

Gingko has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Today, it is commonly used in the West as a dietary supplement for various conditions including asthma, bronchitis, and tinnitus. Some studies suggest that Gingko may improve memory and speed of cognitive functions, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Related Terms

  • Gingkolide: A class of terpene lactones found in Gingko biloba.
  • Bilobalide: A sesquiterpenoid found in Gingko biloba.
  • Flavonoid: A type of plant metabolite thought to provide health benefits through cell signalling pathways and antioxidant effects. Gingko contains high levels of flavonoids.

See Also

External links

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