Ginkgo Biloba: The Tree of Memory That Could Power India’s Brain Health Revolution

Dr. Arun Chandan

Medicinal Plants Expert & Ayurveda Specialist

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In the dense forests of China, temples of Japan, and even sidewalks of European cities, a peculiar tree with fan-shaped leaves quietly grows — the Ginkgo biloba. Often called a “living fossil,” this tree is not just ancient in lineage, but also profound in its promise: a natural solution for memory, brain health, and age-related disorders. Now, in a world racing toward longevity but stumbling with lifestyle diseases, Ginkgo biloba may be India’s next big leap in preventive wellness, herbal entrepreneurship, and cognitive health care.

This feature explores the folklore, science, and future of Ginkgo biloba, while examining how India can embrace its cultivation, value addition, and integration into public health.

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A Tree Older Than Dinosaurs

Ginkgo biloba is the only surviving species of an ancient plant group that predates even the dinosaurs. It has stood the test of time for over 200 million years. Native to China, this tree has been revered in East Asia not just for its resilience, but for its deep spiritual and medicinal roots. In Buddhist temples, Ginkgo trees are planted as sacred guardians. In Hiroshima, Ginkgo trees were the first to sprout again after the atomic bomb, earning them the title of “trees of hope.”

But beyond symbolism, its leaves have served a very practical use: medicine.

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The Medicine of Memory

For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used Ginkgo for treating respiratory issues, improving circulation, and strengthening the brain. The West caught on in the 20th century, and today Ginkgo extract — particularly the standardized EGb 761 — is among the world’s best-selling plant-based supplements. It is widely used in managing early-stage Alzheimer’s, age-related memory decline, anxiety, and peripheral vascular diseases.

What makes Ginkgo stand out pharmacologically are two key components:

• Flavonoids, which act as antioxidants
• Terpene lactones (like ginkgolides and bilobalide), which enhance cerebral blood flow and protect nerve cells

Numerous studies in Europe and Asia confirm its cognitive-enhancing effects, especially in geriatric populations. Germany, in fact, prescribes Ginkgo extracts as reimbursable medicines under public health insurance.

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Why Should India Care?

India is home to one of the world’s largest aging populations. Neurological disorders, including dementia and memory loss, are on the rise. While the AYUSH system offers time-tested wisdom on rasayana (rejuvenation), it is yet to fully embrace herbs like Ginkgo that are proven in integrative settings.

Ironically, while India imports Ginkgo extracts and supplements, it has the climate, land, and human capital to grow the tree — particularly in Himalayan states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and parts of Northeast India. The opportunity is ripe for:

• Commercial cultivation in temperate regions
• Setting up processing units for dried leaves and extracts
• Product development under Ayurvedic and wellness brands

With proper investment and training, India could become self-sufficient and even an exporter of Ginkgo-based herbal products.

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From the Forest to the Farm

Ginkgo biloba thrives in temperate climates, requires minimal inputs, and is resilient against pollution and pests. The tree grows slowly but is long-living, with productive leaves harvested annually. In China, over 200,000 hectares are under Ginkgo cultivation, employing thousands of rural families.

Pilot studies in Himachal Pradesh show that Ginkgo can be grown successfully. Farmers harvesting dried leaves can earn around ₹70,000 to ₹90,000 per acre annually. Given that dried Ginkgo leaves fetch ₹300–400 per kg internationally, there’s ample potential for agripreneurs, women’s self-help groups (SHGs), and start-ups.

Imagine a line of Indian products: Ginkgo brain boosters, memory teas, natural anti-aging creams — all “Made in India.”

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Caution and Quality Control

Of course, Ginkgo isn’t without concerns. It can interact with anticoagulants (blood thinners), SSRIs, and some epilepsy medications. Proper dosage, quality standardization, and clinical supervision are essential.

Additionally, market adulteration is a real issue. Sub-standard products may contain synthetic flavonoids or unrelated plant materials. This is where India must be cautious: any move to promote Ginkgo must go hand-in-hand with rigorous quality control, phytochemical testing, and regulatory safeguards.

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Not Just for the Elderly

While Ginkgo is best known for its impact on aging brains, its benefits extend to younger populations too. College students in the West often use it for improving focus and mental clarity. Athletes use it to improve oxygenation and circulation. Women find its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties useful in skin care routines and hormonal balance.

It’s also making its way into the wellness spa industry — in the form of rejuvenating herbal facials, balms, and aroma therapies. From Ayurveda resorts in Kerala to eco-spas in the Himalayas, Ginkgo-infused treatments could become the new trend in green luxury.

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Integrating with Indian Systems of Medicine

Though Ginkgo is not a classical Indian herb, it fits beautifully into the modern Ayurvedic philosophy of integrative wellness. Several Indian companies have already launched proprietary formulations containing Ginkgo with Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Shankhpushpi — creating synergies between East and East.

The Ministry of AYUSH can consider including Ginkgo under its proprietary formulations list. Training modules for herbal growers, extractors, and practitioners should include modern pharmacology alongside traditional wisdom.

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A Tree for the Future

As the world prepares for an aging tsunami, cognitive health is becoming central to wellness. The global brain health supplements market is expected to cross USD 15 billion by 2030. Ginkgo biloba, with its proven track record, is well-positioned to lead this revolution.

India must not miss this opportunity

By encouraging pilot cultivation, supporting farmers, setting up extract units, and integrating Ginkgo into public health strategies, India can not only cut its herbal import bill but also take leadership in the herbal cognitive care domain.

Just as India successfully championed Ashwagandha and Tulsi, now may be the time to add a new name to our healing forest — Ginkgo biloba, the tree of memory, resilience, and opportunity.

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About the Author:
Dr. Arun Chandan is a medicinal plant expert and senior Ayurvedic physician from Himachal Pradesh. He has been actively involved in traditional medicine policy, herbal cultivation projects, and knowledge documentation across India.