Description: Ginger has been in medicinal use for thousands of years. It is currently one of the most widely used herbs worldwide. Ginger is valued in medicine as a carminative and stimulant to the gastrointestinal tract. It is antiemetic and therefore brings relief to digestion troubled by travel sickness. It is much in vogue as a household remedy for indigestion as it warms the digestive organs, stimulates digestive secretions, increases the amylase concentration in saliva, and facilitates the digestion of starches and fatty foods. It is also useful in lack of appetite, wind, diarrhoea, dysentery, flatulence, colic, nausea, vomiting, spasm and it strengthens memory. Also protects the liver. It is believed to have aphrodisiac properties. It tones up sex organs and cures functional impotence, premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea. It inhibits prostaglandin production. thus reducing inflammation and pain.

Ginger is reported to contain an antihistaminic factor. It is included among antidepressants and it forms an ingredient of some anti-narcotic preparations. It is soothing for cold, cough, asthma, flu and other respiratory problems. Ginger is thought to reduce cholesterol levels, while at the same time increasing a sluggish circulation. It heats the joints and is therefore useful against gout. Ginger contains more than 12 antioxidants; fighting free radicals which contribute to tissue damage and inflammation.

Ginger stimulates the circulation, and helps blood to flow to the surface, making it an important remedy for chilblains and poor circulation to the hands and feet. It also increases sweating, and helps reduce temperature in fevers.

Externally, it is the base of many fibrositis, rheumatic, muscle sprain and cellulite treatment. The oil is a rubefacient which can effectively ease painful conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism or muscle pain and improve poor circulation.

Recommended Dosage: Rhizome : 2 to 4 g powder; Fresh Juice : 2 to 3 ml with honey.

Contraindication: Although Ginger prevents vomiting, it should not be taken for morning sickness during pregnancy. People with gallstones and peptic ulcers should avoid it unless their doctor approves. Do not use if anticoagulants are being administered or during pregnancy due to its potential to cause uterine contractions. Large overdoses carry the potential for causing CNS depression. Avoid excessive amounts in cases of acne, eczema, or herpes. Ginger may cause adverse reactions when used in combination with anticoagulant drugs such as asprin.