Ginko for a Mental & Spiritual Boost
- Linda Crider
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
I always learn something new when I write these posts! This time, I was amazed to find that the GINKO tree once flourished in the western hemisphere. They do still grow here, but until now I've associated its legends and lore strictly with Asian cultures and countries where it prefers to abundantly thrive these days. Actually, this tree does more than just thrive--it is one of the longest living trees on the planet today.
Ginko trees (also called maidenhair trees among other names) can live as long as 3000 years, so they must have some kind of botanical super power. I recently learned that one growing outside a temple near Hiroshima managed to survive the WWII bombing when everything around the epicenter was destroyed.
The story goes that it began blooming again shortly after the devastating event, and the temple was eventually rebuilt around it! No wonder there is ongoing DNA and genome research on how this tree may harbor secrets to longevity.
So what does Ginko know about longevity that most of us don't? Well, I really can't speak to its secret, and will let the scientists continue the search on that. However, I do think it's not just about extending one's life span, but living one that is enjoyed with a lucid and active mind.
Take a look at this month's card that is part of the Herbal Astrology Oracle deck created by Adriana Ayeles. She explains that Ginko is "stimulating, an initiator of action and an invigorating source to the mind." She also relates it to the "dawn of a new mind," (as in the key word "breakthrough" on the card), but I also like to think of it as preserving and supporting a physically existing brain.
Although the Chinese praised its ability to treat lung conditions such as asthma, Ginko became especially popular as an herb in US health food stores in the last 45 years for its circulatory stimulating action that brings blood flow to the brain. There are conflicting studies, but some indicate success in treating, dementia as well as other neuro-degenerative conditions. You can find it alone or in combination with other herbs that help with focus and memory.
Ginko's ability to support and enhance mental acuity offers similar effects for the seeker of spiritual wisdom. According to one website that explores this plant's history and properties: "By enhancing cognitive function, Ginkgo Biloba can help you connect more deeply with your intuition. This can lead to profound insights during spiritual practices such as journaling, dreamwork, or intention setting."
There are numerous ways to work with this herb for spiritual purposes. A simple but effective grounding practice involves visualizing the tree's ancient, deep roots connecting you to the earth’s energy as its leaves simultaneously reach for the divine.
When you're feeling a little afloat, take a few minutes to give this a go and see if it works.
If we’re talking “ancient” plant medicine, both physical and spiritual, then this herb is certainly the one to highlight. Recorded history indicates that Ginko was used medicinally by the Chinese as early as the 12th Century. Paleontologists claim that there is fossilized evidence it existed 270 million years ago which brings it back to prehistoric times when dinosaurs roamed the earth!
(Note: Of course, neither the ancient Chinese nor the dinosaurs had to worry about whether Ginko conflicted with any modern pharmaceuticals. The warnings include avoiding this herb for anyone taking anti-depressants since it affects brain activity. And due to its action as a circulatory stimulant, it can conflict with blood thinner doses. For these reasons, Ginko is on the “do not take” list before and after a surgical procedure and if in doubt, consulting a qualified practitioner is recommended.)
As always, thanks for letting me share my thoughts and journey with you. I welcome your input, so if you want to submit a comment, scroll down to the bottom of this post. If you are interested in booking a personal session, you can do this here:
You can also contact me via email at: my.plant.allies@gmail.com
For now, here's wishing you wellness, wisdom and bloomin' vibes!
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