Introduction: The Chinese name for Ginkgo, ‘Yinxing’, means ‘Silver Apricot’ and refers to the appearance of the fruit. Ginkgo biloba is the world's oldest living tree species, and is indigenous to China, Japan and Korea. The trees are deciduous with a lifespan as long as 1,000 years.
A Unique Tree
The Ginkgo has no close relatives in the plant kingdom. It is so unique it is classified in its own division, the ‘Ginkgophyta’ with just one species.
Since 2800 B.C
The medicinal use of Gingko biloba has been traced back to the oldest Chinese materia medica in 2800 B.C. In the western world, gingko leaf has been used since the 1960s. It is believed to improve circulation and blood flow to the brain.
Brewing Suggestions
Herbal teas with light, delicate blossoms or leaves require somewhat shorter steeping times and lower temperatures than other more hearty herbs. We recommend using 1 teaspoon of leaf per 8oz of near boiling water (180 to 200 F) and steeping 3 to 5 minutes. This provides a sweeter, better tasting brew while repeated infusions allow you to extract all the nutritional and medicinal benefits from the herb.
Herbal teas can be brewed in porcelain, ceramic, glass, or stainless steel but never in aluminum or other harmful materials. Be sure to cover the cup or teapot while steeping to prevent the loss of fragrant essential oils and other therapeutic and nutritional elements.
