Herb of the Week: Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is a tree, usually called just "ginkgo" but it's also known as a Maidenhair Tree and is native to East Asia. These trees are considered to be "living fossils" because they survived for over 200 million years. They were saved from extinction by Chinese Buddhist monks by cultivating it in their monasteries since the 1100's. They consider it a symbol of hope and endurance.

Rich in antioxidants, this herb is widely used to help improve circulation in the body, including the brain. Its properties enlarge blood vessels so blood may flow more freely (something that does decline when we age) and it also helps prevent platelets from clumping together and causing abnormal clots. You may recall a huge spike in consumer usage a couple of decades ago to improve brain function - all it does is improve circulation so the brain can function better. It is also an anti-inflammatory and may help reduce stress and anxiety.

I already mentioned that ginkgo is considered a symbol of hope and endurance, but what else can we use it for in witchcraft? It can be used in healing rituals, when trying to balance opposing forces, spells/rituals to do with encouraging hope and peace, and since it is considered "feminine" energy and the planet, Venus, it can be used for love, sex, and relationship magic.

From the Herbal Astrology Oracle deck (by Adriana Ayales):

This card's meaning is "breakthrough", those "aha" moments, and is ruled by Mars/Uranus.
(If you would like more information on the full meaning of this card, please consider buying the deck.)