Ginger: Learn the secrets ginger holds close to it’s spicy heart.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Ginger’s energetics as a fresh root are warming and drying, but as a dried root or powdered they’re hot and dry. This is one of those herbs that’s great for a warming treat during the cold winter months.
Although it’s exact origins are unknown, it’s believed to be native to Maritime Southeast Asia, with evidence showing cultivation in India and China as early as 3,000 years ago.
Ginger’s actually a rhizome and not a root, although everyone refers to it as a root. These days it’s grown primarily in India, but it’s also cultivated in tropical regions all over the world.
Its uses in the herbal world are almost as varied as it is in the culinary world. I’ve heard herbalists say over and over again, “What can’t ginger do?” And Ayurvedic medicine refers to it as the “Universal medicine.”
For years, I thought ginger was simply the powdered stuff that went into a few of the cookies mom made. We rarely used it in any form in our house.
As I got older I discovered the fresh root we find in the grocery stores. And I’m so glad I did.
Ginger’s Medicinal Uses
There’s a lot of different uses in the herbal world. Here’s what it’s use for most often.
Ginger as a digestive aid.
- Ginger has long been known for its digestive benefits. It can help relieve gas and bloating, making it a friend to anyone with digestive issues.
- It contains compounds like gingerol that help alleviate nausea, indigestion, motion sickness, morning sickness or even post surgery queasiness. Regardless of the reason for your nausea or belly ache, incorporating it into your meals or drinking ginger tea can provide relief.
Ginger’s Anti-inflammatory Properties
- Ginger’s active compounds, gingerols and shogaols, have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it helpful for managing conditions like arthritis and muscle pain. Infused in an oil, it can warm the joints as well.
- Made into a tea with honey is a popular home remedy for soothing sore throats and coughs.
Ginger as a digestive aid.
- Ginger has long been known for its digestive benefits. It can help relieve gas and bloating, making it a friend to anyone with digestive issues.
- It contains compounds like gingerol that help alleviate nausea, indigestion, motion sickness, morning sickness or even post surgery queasiness. Regardless of the reason for your nausea or belly ache, incorporating it into your meals or drinking ginger tea can provide relief.
Ginger’s Antioxidant Properties
- It’s packed with antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease and fight against premature aging.
- This property also makes ginger a powerhouse for immune support too, making it great for the cold & flu season.
Using Ginger For Infections
- Ginger has strong antimicrobial properties.
- Use a few drops of fresh juice in a congested or infected ear. Remember to never put anything in an ear if the eardrum is perforated.
- Or use the fresh juice topically as a poultice for a fungal infection as well. But avoid using it on sensitive skin due to its hot nature.
And finally…
Ginger is considered a synergist. This means when you add it in small amounts to any other formula or tea that you create, it can help circulate the benefits of your formula throughout the body. The hot nature of the herb increases circulation and that circulation can help move your herbal creation to all parts of your body as needed.
Getting Ginger into your life
I talk here about the best way to use herbs for your health is getting them into your everyday life. And here’s some suggestion to do just that. Keep in mind though, where ginger is concerned, a little goes a long way because of it’s heat. So start small and work up.
- Grate or chop fresh ginger for a bit of spiciness, warmth and a hint of sweetness in both sweet & savory dishes. Add it to smoothies, salad dressings, or marinades.
- Whether powdered, grated or sliced, ginger adds a unique depth to curries, stir-fries, soups, and desserts. Its subtle sweetness pairs nicely with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Steep sliced ginger in hot water for a simple and soothing tea. Add honey or lemon for a touch of sweetness and citrus.
The next time you reach for that ginger root, savor its culinary magic but don’t forget to appreciate the centuries-old wisdom of it’s healing benefits. It’s versatility and potency make it a well rounded herb.
So go ahead. Go forth and grate, sip, and savor and feel the power of this herb. Your taste buds and your body will thank you for it!
And as always, while ginger is generally safe for most people, it’s always best to consult your doctor before consuming large amounts, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. Although I think it would be hard to do consume large amounts of ginger simply due to the heat, be mindful of the amounts you take in at one time.
I hope this article has inspired you to try something new with ginger. Feel free to share your favorite ginger recipes and remedies in the comments below! I’d love to hear them.
Pingback: Fire cider: A spicy elixir that warms your body & soul.
Pingback: Headache relief the natural way.