Ginger, Young Plant
Latin Name: Zingiber officinale
Family: Zingiberaceae
Description
Ginger is one of the most widely used herbs in the Far East and is included in about half of all multi-herb formulas in oriental medicine. Several varieties are commercially used; the very pungent Jamaican or African white, powdered Chinese ginger, and African and Cochin ginger which are the highest in volatile oil. It is referred to as "black" if not peeled and "white" if peeled.
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.
Source
Root
Ginger, Dried
Preparations Compress: Soak cloth in strong, warm, infusion. Strain and apply externally. This prepartation is ideal for sore joints, pain inflammations, earaches, dandruff, to break congestion and bring blood up to the surface. Apply for up to 25 minutes at a time.
Candied Ginger: Chew as needed.
Decoction: Prepare a decoction of 3 to 4 teaspoons of fresh or dried root boiled with 4 cups of water for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily or whenever needed.
Supplement: Take 2 500mg capsules, 30 minutes before travelling. Take an additional 1 or 2 capsules when symptoms occur.
Infusion: Add 2 teaspoons grated, fresh, ginger to one cup of hot water. Take as often as needed.
Tincture: Take 30 to 60 drops, 3 times daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Not to be used when there is excess heat in the stomach, as in peptic ulceration. Ginger will aggravate the situation.
Use in moderation for morning sickness.
Ginger reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs, such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking ginger.
This herb may also raise blood pressure levels in some individuals
Ailment / Situation Listing
