Valued for its therapeutic and culinary properties, Zingiber officinale, or ginger has been used by Asian, Indian and Arabic traditions since ancient times. Hippocrates used it as medicine, but the Greeks and Romans valued ginger for its aromatic and pungent flavor. Rediscovered later by Marco Polo, it became one of the most important trade items of the Far East.
Healing Properties of Ginger
The leaves of the ginger plant are edible, but it is the root, called a rhizome, where the real benefits lie. The root contains essential oils, anti-oxidants, amino acids, minerals, and fiber. Gingerols and shogaols, plant compounds that give ginger its spicy taste and pungent aroma, are anti-inflammatory and analgesic. In China ginger has been used to aid digestion and dyspepsia for thousands of years. It has been used to treat respiratory illness, headache, fever, nausea and morning sickness, hypertension and arthritis. In addition, research indicates that ginger might inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells. It may also lower cholesterol and help prevent blood clots.
Ginger is perhaps one of the best known herbs for digestion. It increases the production of enzymes which help to break down proteins and rid the stomach and intestines of gas. It also aids in the digestion of fatty foods. Its anti-bacterial power is effective in preventing intestinal problems that take place as a result of the alteration of the intestinal flora.
Ginger's pungent, spicy flavor gives it a warming quality that increases and improves circulation, facilitating blood flow and bile production, thereby aiding the body in detoxification. Its spicy-hot taste, stimulating aroma, and powerful anti-inflammatory effects are useful in diminishing headaches and the nasal and chest congestion associated with the cold and flu season. Ginger tea with lemon and honey may alleviate the pain of a sore throat. Brewed as a tea, ginger induces sweating, which helps fevers run their course.
Ginger Availability
Ginger is available as fresh or dried ginger root, and from distillation of the root oil. The herb is available in extracts, tinctures, capsules and oils. Whenever possible, choose fresh ginger over dried as it is superior in flavor and also contains higher levels of gingerols and shogaols. It is sold in the produce section at the grocery store. Look for a root with a firm smooth skin, if it is wrinkled, it is drying out and will be woody inside.
Remove the skin with a paring knife and then slice, mince, or julienne. Pairing the flavor of ginger with garlic adds a complexity to the taste and complements ginger's healing qualities as garlic also has anti-oxidant properties to help strengthen the immune system.
Remove the skin with a paring knife and then slice, mince, or julienne. Pairing the flavor of ginger with garlic adds a complexity to the taste and complements ginger's healing qualities as garlic also has anti-oxidant properties to help strengthen the immune system.
To make tea, steep five or six quarter inch slices of minced ginger root and a large clove of minced garlic in a cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Remove the ginger and garlic and add a slice of lemon and a teaspoon or two of honey.
Dosage and Side Effects
Ginger may be used by children over 2 years of age to treat nausea, stomach cramping or headaches. Your doctor can help you determine the right dose. Generally, adults should not take more than 4g of ginger per day. Pregnant women should not take more than 1g per day. You may also chew a 1/4 oz piece of fresh ginger as needed. You should not take ginger if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinning medicine as ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. Ginger may lower blood sugar, raising the risk of hypoglycemia, and it may also lower blood pressure, increasing the risk for hypotension and irregular heartbeat. For these reasons ginger should always be taken with care.
Side effects of ginger are rare, but if taken in high doses it may cause heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth irritation. You may be able to avoid some of these effects by taking ginger in capsule form.
The use of herbs is a traditional approach to supplementing the diet with added vitamins, minerals and fiber. It is a time-honored way of strengthening one's immunity, a way to prevent and treat disease. Used in moderation, herbs can be used to complement your health, vitality and the quality of your life.
The use of herbs is a traditional approach to supplementing the diet with added vitamins, minerals and fiber. It is a time-honored way of strengthening one's immunity, a way to prevent and treat disease. Used in moderation, herbs can be used to complement your health, vitality and the quality of your life.
