Botanical Library
Ginkgo
TCM tradition
🍄Image: GinkgoAdd an image URL to this ingredient in Admin to replace this placeholder.
At a glance
Where it's from
Native to China; the ginkgo is a 'living fossil' tree.
Look & taste
A fan-shaped, two-lobed leaf from an ancient tree. Mild, slightly bitter (leaf)
Signature compounds
Flavonoid glycosides and terpene lactones (ginkgolides).
Traditionally used for
Bai Guo - the seed and leaf used in Chinese medicine for the lungs and circulation.
In Canada, we can say...
Helps to enhance cognitive function and memory in adults, and helps to support peripheral circulation.
Did you know?
Ginkgo is the sole survivor of an ancient plant lineage - a true living fossil.
History & natural history
The ginkgo tree has existed for roughly 200 million years; its leaves and seeds are long used in Chinese medicine.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Helps to enhance cognitive function and memory in adults, and helps to support peripheral circulation.
How to use it
Capsules, as directed.
Want this?
Ginkgo isn't in stock yet. Tell us you'd like it and we'll consider adding it.
Request Ginkgo →Side effects & safety
Check with a practitioner if pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood thinners, or before surgery.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.