Botanical Briefs: Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo biloba is an ancient tree that originated in China and is now cultivated worldwide for its ornamental foliage and resistance to disease and pollution. Direct or indirect interaction with the ginkgo tree can cause allergic contact dermatitis, with erythematous papules, vesicles, and edema on exposed areas due to ginkgolic acids. On the other hand, ginkgo extract, produced from the tree leaves, has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine and is now a popularly consumed herbal medicine. Components of the ginkgo tree can cause dermatitis, but active ingredients in ginkgo extract may be beneficial; research on its safety and potential uses is ongoing.