Herbs - Ginger - Ailments / Situations Where Used

Ginger is internally very warming and stimulating and is used for colds, chills, influenza, cramps, pains, spasms, and generally when the body is chilled. It is very useful in picking up low energy and can work on lung complaints, sore throats, excess mucous, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Candied ginger is eaten to ease off nausea, motion sickness, poor digestion, and flatulence. Its antispasmodic properties help calm stomach convulsions. The fresh infusion is more ideal for these symptoms, although the root pieces can be eaten freely as they are not loaded with sugar. It is also helpful in morning sickness in pregnancy. The dried powder is usually used for dissolving phlegm, diarrhea, cough due to colds, rheumatism, arthritis, and adding warmth to the stomach, which can be very soothing.

This herb can also encourage the production of opiates, or natural painkillers. In addition, it can reduce the level of certain prostaglandins that can cause inflammation and relax blood vessels in the head.

In suppressed menstrual flow, ginger is very helpful in breaking congestion through its warming properties and is generally helpful in most cases involving congestion. Some even claim that ginger added to the diet will improve sex life.

When cooked with meat, ginger helps detoxify meat, and promotes digestion. Ginger helps secrete digestive juices which help in the breakdown and assimilation of the food. When taken with other agents, it helps absorb and transport them where they need to be. Therefore, it is always a good idea to add a bit of ginger to a formula.