Make a tasty tea from ginkgo leaves.
In traditional medicine, the ginkgo biloba plant has been touted to aid in memory function and circulation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo remains an accepted medicine in Europe today with current studies under way for its benefits in treating Alzheimer's. The medical center notes that ginkgo leaves contain more than 40 compounds, two of which have shown antioxidant benefits: flavonoids and terpenoids. The former protect blood vessels and nerves from damage, while the latter help dilate the and improve blood flow. Making your own tea from the leaves can help you capture these brain benefits in a warm, soothing drink.
Instructions
1. Place five whole, fresh ginkgo leaves (or 1 tsp. of crushed, dried leaves) into the bottom of a tea cup.
2. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a tea kettle.
3. Pour the water into the cup over the ginkgo leaves.
4. Cover the tea cup with a saucer and allow the leaves to steep for 10 minutes.
5. Uncover, pull the leaves out of the cup with a spoon and enjoy.
Tags: ginkgo leaves, blood vessels