Who runs Herban Herbalist?

Herban Herbalist is a one-woman shop run by Bonnie Landsee, a Certified Master Herbalist based in Rosendale, Wisconsin. Bonnie has over 30 years of experience working with herbs and makes every product by hand.

What products does Herban Herbalist sell?

Herban Herbalist sells handcrafted herbal tea blends, tinctures, infused honeys, soy wax candles, aromatherapy sprays and roll-ons, energy clearing smudge sprays, spiritual baths, and ritual kits. Custom tea blends can also be ordered through the Herban Herbalist mobile app.

Can I book a consultation with Bonnie Landsee?

Yes. Bonnie offers one-on-one herbal and spiritual consultations starting at $25. Sessions are virtual and can be booked online.

Does Herban Herbalist have a mobile app?

Yes. The Herban Herbalist app is free on iOS and Android. It includes 350+ herb profiles from Western, Ayurvedic, Chinese, and African traditions, plus tea builders, an 8-chapter herbal course, and an interaction checker.

Gingko Biloba

Name: Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba)
Creator: Bonnie Landsee

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Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba

Family: Ginkgoaceae | Parts Used: Leaves

Ginkgo Biloba is one of the oldest living tree species on earth, with a fossil record stretching back 270 million years. The fan-shaped leaves contain flavonoids and nonflavonoid terpenes, including bilobalide and ginkgolides, that support circulation to the brain and offer neuroprotective effects. Traditionally used in TCM and Japanese herbalism for brain function, memory, and energy, it is one of the most studied herbs for cognitive support and circulation to the brain.

Traditional Uses

Supports brain function and memory
Stimulates circulation, particularly blood flow to the brain
Traditionally used for increased energy and mental alertness
Used in TCM as a bitter, astringent, neutral herb for brain and lung conditions
Neuroprotective support, particularly studied in relation to cognitive decline

Properties

Vasoactive (improves circulation to the brain)
Neuroprotective
Antioxidant
Stimulant

Key Constituents

Preparations & Dosage

Tincture: 15 drops three times daily for a minimum of 3 months. Consistent long-term use is key for measurable results.
Infusion: 1 cup daily from the dried leaves.
Note: Only the leaves are used medicinally. The nuts are mildly toxic raw and should be roasted before eating.

TCM Profile: Bitter, astringent, neutral.

Cautions

May increase bleeding risk. Discontinue at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Do not use with blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin) or antiplatelet medications without medical supervision.
May interact with anticonvulsants, antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs), and diabetes medications.
Uncooked ginkgo seeds are toxic and may cause seizures. Only use prepared leaf products.
May cause headache, dizziness, GI upset, or allergic skin reactions.
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Ancient tree native to Southeast and South Central Asia, now a common ornamental throughout North America and Europe. Prefers moist, well-drained sandy soil in full sun to partial shade. Hardy to zone 5. The leaf and fruit have also been used to control aphids and grubs in the garden.

Fun Fact: Ginkgo biloba is considered a living fossil. The species has remained essentially unchanged for 270 million years, surviving the mass extinction event that ended the dinosaurs. A small stand of ginkgo trees survived the 1945 Hiroshima atomic bombing and still grow near the blast site today.

Sources & Research

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra

Herbs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia, Kathi Keville

Published Research:

Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Effect of Ginkgo biloba Extract Against AD and Other Neurological Disorders | Neurotherapeutics (2019)

Ginkgo biloba: indications, mechanisms, and safety | The Psychiatric Clinics of North America (2013)

Efficacy and adverse effects of ginkgo biloba for cognitive impairment and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis | Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2015)

Ginkgo biloba: A Leaf of Hope in the Fight Against Alzheimer's Dementia: Clinical Trial Systematic Review | Antioxidants (2024)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.