Exploring the benefits of ginkgo and Phaleria macrocarpa
THE quest for cures among early civilisations is well-documented. However, modernisation saw a movement away from traditional treatments and healthcare until of late, when we have begun to once again appreciate nature’s pharmacy.
We have started to see and understand that we are blessed with forests that have such diversity in biological resources, which may have the answer if properly understood and administered.
Now it is common to hear of ‘miraculous’ plants that can supposedly cure many illnesses. I thought I would explore two plants which have become quite popular for their supposed health properties.
Ginkgo biloba
We can often find gingko supplements readily available for sale. What is it about the ginkgo tree that is supposedly good for health?
This is a large tree that reach over 30 metres in height in China. It is the foliage in autumn that are prized for herbal remedies. In temperate countries, the leaves will of course turn yellow and fall. The extract of these leaves contain phenolic acids –proantocyanidins, flavonoid glycosides and so on. The leaves also contain unique ginkgo bioflavonoids and polyphenols.
Ginkgos are dioecious with separate sexes – some trees are female, while others as male. Female trees produce cones and seeds after pollination. The use of this herb as an antioxidant is claimed to protect against ageing, muscular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, asthma, bronchitis, and tinnitus (ear ringing).
Phaleria macrocarpa
Not too long ago, I went with my friends to Kimura Road, off Jalan Quop, around the Mile 10 area of Kuching-Serian Road looking for areas to photograph. We came upon some very beautiful ornamental plants with beautiful fruits. The bright red fruits were indeed interesting to look at. This inspired me to find out more.
This an evergreen tropical plant with a height of up to 18 metres tall. The plant belongs to the family called Thymelaceae. Have you seen it? You might have actually come across it without knowing it.
A recent article on traditional medicine described the health values of the fruit of this local plant, which is said to cure many illnesses. This traditional remedy even has an important-sounding name – Buah Mahkota Dewa or God’s Crown!
This is a shrub covered with green tapered leaves up to four inches long and two inches wide. The flowers are green to maroon in colour. The young fruits are green and about 1.2 inches in diameter. As the fruits ripen, they will turn a bright red colour. The interior of the fruit is fibrous like the husk of palms. There are one or two large seeds inside the husk.
Interestingly, it is the husk that is used for medicinal purposes. There are one or two brown seeds per fruit and these are actually poisonous. The flesh can also be used for medicine as well.
The properties of the plant are well documented and it is used widely in Indonesia and part of Papua – formerly Irian Jaya. It has also spread to other tropical areas. The plant is known to contain several active substances such as alkaloids – to neutralise toxins in the body; saponins – with antibacterial and anti-virus properties to boost the immune system as well as enhance vitality, reduce blood sugar levels and blood clotting; flavonoids for the circulation of blood throughout the body to prevent blood clots, helping to reduce cholesterol and protecting against coronary heart disease; as well as polyphenols that serve as antihistamines protecting against allergies.
In general, the fruit of this tree is used as a tea for treatment. Be warned that it may cause drowsiness and even intoxicate. The effects can apparently be reduced by drinking more water.
Do send me an email if you have questions, comments, or suggestions.
Happy gardening.