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The Fan Leaf shape of the Ginko Biloba.

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The ancient ginkgo trees are commonly found near Daoist and Buddhist temples, their survival interlinked with the veneration by Buddhist monks who cultivated and preserved these trees on temple grounds, thus contributing to the dissemination of the species. In Korea, ginkgo is cultivated for its beautiful leaves and edible and medicinal nuts, while in certain regions of Japan, its widespread planting is influenced by its significance in Confucianism. Despite being cultivated worldwide, the presence of wild Ginkgo biloba populations remains uncertain, leading the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to list the species as "endangered" due to the rapid decline in individual trees, necessitating conservation efforts.

Several threats contribute to Ginkgo biloba's endangered status:
Habitat Loss: Deforestation, urbanization, and land-use changes significantly reduce the natural habitats of Ginkgo biloba, thereby impacting its wild populations.
Climate Change: The tree's sensitivity to temperature and moisture changes renders it vulnerable to the effects of climate change, further endangering its survival.
Overharvesting: The demand for Ginkgo biloba as a medicinal supplement may lead to overharvesting in the wild if not sustainably managed, posing a threat to its existence.
Invasive Species: The introduction of invasive pests and diseases in certain areas can pose a risk to Ginkgo biloba populations, adding to the challenges faced in its conservation efforts.

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Ginkgo biloba has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where its seeds were believed to open energy channels in various organ systems, including the kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs. This ancient medicinal tree species has withstood the test of time for millennia, remaining unchanged due to its remarkable resistance to environmental stresses. One of its distinctive features that sets it apart from conifers is the presence of multiflagellated sperm cells, resembling those found in cycads. Molecular analysis of its genome further suggests a closer relationship to cycads than to conifers. Beyond its medicinal significance, the traditional uses of Ginkgo biloba hold great cultural value as an integral part of Chinese heritage and indigenous knowledge. Preserving this valuable information not only honors and respects the cultural practices and beliefs of indigenous communities but also offers potential insights into its medicinal properties, guiding modern research. Indigenous knowledge often leads to the discovery of new bioactive compounds and therapeutic uses. Additionally, indigenous communities employ sustainable harvesting practices that support the long-term survival of Ginkgo biloba in its natural habitat. Understanding and incorporating these practices can play a vital role in the conservation of this remarkable species and its environment.

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Neurological Problems: Ginkgo biloba extract has been extensively studied for its potential neuroprotective effects and its role in supporting cognitive function, particularly in individuals with Alzheimer's disease or vascular dementia. Studies suggest that Ginkgo biloba may improve cognitive performance, memory, and attention in individuals with cognitive impairment and age-related decline. The herb's antioxidant properties, attributed to its bioactive compounds like flavonoids and terpenoids, are believed to protect brain cells from oxidative damage and inflammation, contributing to its potential benefits for neurological health.
Its ability to di

Cardiovascular Health: Ginkgo has shown promise in cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, enhancing vascular function, and acting as a vasodilator. In one study involving individuals with heart disease, supplementation with ginkgo resulted in an immediate increase in blood flow, possibly due to a 12% increase in levels of circulating nitric oxide, a compound responsible for dilating blood vessels.

Anti-Inflammatory: Additionally, ginkgo's anti-inflammatory properties have been demonstrated in various disease states, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), cancer, heart disease, and stroke. The herb's ability to reduce markers of inflammation in both human and animal cells suggests its potential as a therapeutic agent against excessive inflammation, which can lead to permanent damage to the body's tissues and DNA.

Overall, the diverse pharmacological effects of Ginkgo biloba extract, particularly its impact on neurological and cardiovascular health and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, make it a promising candidate for further research and potential therapeutic applications in various chronic diseases and aging-related conditions.

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Scientists have found more than 40 components in ginkgo. Only two are believed to act as medicine: flavonoids and terpenoids.

Flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants.

Laboratory and animal studies show that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels, and retina from damage.

Terpenoids (such as ginkgolides) improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of platelets.

Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: The cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in the liver play a crucial role in the metabolism of many drugs and herbal supplements. Some individuals may have genetic variants in these enzymes, affecting their ability to metabolize Ginkgo biloba compounds efficiently. This can result in variations in drug levels and potential differences in treatment outcomes.

UGT Enzymes: Another group of enzymes called UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) are involved in the metabolism of Ginkgo biloba and other substances. Genetic variations in UGT genes can impact the rate of metabolism and clearance of Ginkgo biloba compounds from the body.

Transporter Genes: Genes encoding drug transporters, such as the ABC transporters, can influence the absorption and elimination of Ginkgo biloba compounds. Genetic variations in these transporter genes may affect the bioavailability and effectiveness of the herbal supplement.

Drug-Drug Interactions: Ginkgo biloba may interact with prescription medications, and these interactions can be influenced by an individual's genetic profile. Some genetic variations may increase the risk of adverse effects or alter the efficacy of Ginkgo biloba when used in combination with specific medications.

Adverse Effects: Genetic factors can also contribute to an individual's susceptibility to potential adverse effects of Ginkgo biloba. Some individuals may have genetic predispositions that make them more or less susceptible to certain side effects.

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Gingko biliba is one of the most commonly used herbal supplements used in the world

There have been many studies where Gingko biloba is shown to help memory

In simple terms, this activity reviews the use of Ginkgo biloba, a commonly used herbal supplement, for various conditions like dementia, cardiovascular disease, sexual dysfunction, vertigo, and others. However, the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed, and there is no FDA-approved use for it.

For dementia, some studies show potential benefits in improving cognitive function, while others do not support its efficacy. It also does not appear to prevent dementia.

Regarding cardiovascular disease, there is limited evidence to support its use for treating or preventing it.

For psychiatric disorders like depression and schizophrenia, some studies suggest a positive effect, but more research is needed.

Ginkgo biloba has been explored for sexual dysfunction, vertigo, vitiligo, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and altitude sickness, but the evidence is inconclusive for most of these conditions.

The active ingredients in Ginkgo biloba affect neurotransmitter pathways and may have neuroprotective effects. It also shows some potential benefits for the cardiovascular system.

Research on Ginkgo biloba and genetics is an area of growing interest in the field of personalized medicine and pharmacogenomics.

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Geographic Distribution of Gingko biloba

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Geographic Distribution of Gingko biloba

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The ginkgo tree originated in China and has a long history of cultivation in Asia, as well as in other parts of the world. It thrives in temperate climates with deep soil and exhibits exceptional adaptability, being resistant to pollutants, fungicides, insects, and drought. Due to its resilience, it is commonly planted in major cities across Asia, Europe, and the eastern United States, including New York City. The name "Gingko biloba" refers to its unique two-lobed leaves, which have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years, making it a living fossil with no living relatives. The first recorded cultivation of the ginkgo tree dates back to China around 1000 years ago, and it was later introduced to Korea and Japan in the 14th-15th century and to Europe in the 1750s.

In terms of its reproductive cycle, the ginkgo tree exhibits a unique phenology. It produces seeds during warm seasons, with those produced during the warm climate germinating earlier in the year compared to those produced during cold seasons. The embryo of the ginkgo seed has a temperature-dependent developmental delay mechanism, which allows it to survive winter by preventing premature maturation in the fall. In warm-temperate climates, ginkgo seeds are shed in late summer or early fall, and the embryo experiences considerable growth during the mild weather that follows. In contrast, in cold-temperate climates, seeds are shed much later in the season, and embryo development is delayed until warm weather arrives in the following spring. The ginkgo tree is dioecious, meaning it produces pollen and seeds on separate plants, and the pollen is dispersed via wind.

Once the seeds fall off the tree in autumn and become fertilized, they can be dispersed by animals, contributing to the species' distribution. One of the primary dispersers of ginkgo seeds is the gray squirrel. This complex reproductive cycle and dispersal mechanism have contributed to the ginkgo's widespread distribution and survival throughout history.

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The ginkgo's distinguishing feature from conifers is its multiflagellated sperm cells, and both its vegetative anatomy and partial molecular analysis of its genome suggest a closer relationship to cycads than to conifers.

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Mature roots are surrounded by phellogen or suberized cells of the cortex and in young roots, a layer of endodermis and uni-layered pericycle is clear.

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The female tree is with a wider crown while the male tree is with slim column and a less spread-out form.

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It has a distinctive branching and fan-shaped leaf with a dwarf shoot and a long shoot.

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One of the world's most distinctive trees...

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One of the world's most distinctive trees...

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The Gingko biloba is the last survivor of an ancient and once diverse lineage which was almost made extinct by the Pleistocene glaciations. It survived only as a relic in restricted areas of eastern and central China.
It has long been known as an edible nut but is also admired in eastern religions.
It is one of the world's most widely used street nuts and has gained popularity in horticultural novelty.
Extracts from its leaves are a widely used herbal supplement in context of current threats to plant diversity.

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More on Morphology of the Ginkgoales. (n.d.). UCMP Berkeley. Retrieved July 27, 2023, from https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/seedplants/ginkgoales/ginkgomm.html