Ginkgo is an absolutely fascinating herb, magically speaking.  For one, it is the only tree on the planet that has survived basically unchanged since the dinosaur age.  For another, it's not too much of a stretch to look at the leaf shape and see one half of the hemisphere of the human brain.  Indeed, the ancients saw this correlation and as a result, the leaf has been used as a brain food for centuries, both in medicine and in magic.  Lastly, it is a tree that can survive for 1,000 years or more, making it a true "Tree of Life."  

Due to its age, Ginkgo is considered an elder with high magical energy, and is used in longevity and age spells. A tradition is to plant a Ginkgo on the occasion of births to ensure long life, and in death to ensure longevity in the peaceful afterworld.  

Ginkgo is also considered an aphrodisiac and fertility herb, and can be used in love and fertility spells to these ends.  Indeed, Ginkgo seeds are sometimes substituted for Lotus seeds at weddings due to this property. One legend has it that if a girl sits under a male Ginkgo tree on a moonlit night, combs her hair and makes a wish, her wish will come true.

Wood from Ginkgo trees can be carried for healing, and the leaf can be used in healing rituals.  Also try a tea for healing and for mental acuity before an examination or important business dealing.

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